How long do you have to work for an employer to get Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Oh that's good to know! So they look at all my jobs combined, not just my most recent one?

Exactly. As long as your total wages from all employers during the base period meet the minimum requirements, you should be eligible.

It's actually based on earnings, not hours. You need to have earned at least $1,000 during your base period and have earnings in at least two quarters of the base period.

oh ok thanks for the correction

That's reassuring! Did you have any issues with the application process?

The application itself was straightforward, but I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I had questions about my claim status. I ended up using this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual person at Washington ESD. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

What's the difference between regular and alternate base period?

Regular base period is quarters 2-5 before you file. Alternate is quarters 1-4 before you file. So if you worked more recently, the alternate might work better for you.

Washington ESD automatically checks the alternate base period if you don't qualify under the regular one, so you don't need to worry about requesting it.

I know, I just don't want to mess anything up or get denied

worst case they say no and you move on

Thank you for breaking that down! I definitely earned more than $1,000 and worked in multiple quarters.

What if someone worked under the table for part of their employment? Does that count toward the base period?

Only wages reported to Washington ESD by employers count. Under the table work won't show up in their system.

How long did it usually take to get through?

Hours of calling. I'd call right when they opened and still couldn't get through half the time.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - it saved me so much time and frustration trying to reach Washington ESD directly.

What are the job search requirements exactly?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. They can audit this at any time.

And you have to register with WorkSourceWA within a certain timeframe too.

What's confusing you about it?

just all the different rules and requirements. plus their website is not very user friendly

If you're having trouble understanding your specific situation, it might be worth getting help from someone who can walk you through it.

Good point! I was laid off last Friday so I should probably file this week.

Definitely. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits if you're approved.

Was it expensive to use?

I thought it was worth it considering how much time I was wasting trying to call myself. Plus I needed to get my claim sorted out quickly.

Thanks for the encouragement! I'm feeling more confident about applying now.

You're welcome! Just make sure to keep good records of your job search activities once you start filing weekly claims.

You need to have worked in Washington state and earned wages from Washington employers. You don't necessarily need to be a current resident, but you do need to have worked here.

ok good to know thanks

Do I need to have all my old pay stubs or just the employment dates?

You don't need pay stubs for the initial application - Washington ESD gets wage information directly from employers. But it's good to have your employment dates and employer info ready.

Yeah you're probably right. I think I was just overthinking it.

Exactly. The worst thing that happens is they say no and then you know for sure.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful information! I'm going to file my claim this week.

You're welcome! Feel free to come back if you have any questions about the weekly claims process.

And remember, if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD about your claim, Claimyr is there if the regular phone lines aren't working out for you.