How long do you have to work on a job to get Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Oh that makes more sense! So if I earned enough at my previous job, the short time at my current job wouldn't disqualify me?

Exactly! But remember, if you quit voluntarily you'll need to prove it was for 'good cause' or you could be disqualified from receiving benefits.

No minimum time at one job, but you do need to meet the earnings threshold across all your jobs in the base period. The $5,265 is split into requirements too - you need at least $1,755 in your highest earning quarter.

ok thats good to know, i was worried about my part time job last summer

That sounds helpful! How does it work exactly? I've been dreading having to call Washington ESD if I need to file.

Basically they handle the calling process for you and get you connected to a real person at Washington ESD. Much better than sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected.

Interesting, I might need to look into that. I've never been able to get through to ESD on the phone.

What if the employer is asking me to do things that weren't in my original job description? Like they want me to work weekends now when I was hired for weekdays only.

That could potentially qualify as 'good cause' if it's a substantial change from what you agreed to, but you'd need to document everything and possibly try to work it out with your employer first.

There actually is a benefit calculator on the Washington ESD website, but it's buried pretty deep in their site. The earnings requirements are also adjusted annually so they change the numbers.

i looked everywhere for that calculator and couldnt find it, their website is a mess

This is really helpful. I'm in a similar situation and wasn't sure how they calculated everything.

Thanks for explaining it so clearly! I think I should be okay based on what I earned at my previous job.

How do you request the alternate base period calculation?

Usually they'll automatically check it if you don't qualify under the regular base period, but you can specifically request it when you file your initial claim.

I had to use the alternate base period option last year and it made the difference in qualifying for benefits.

Good to know! I worked at my previous job for 8 months so I definitely have earnings in multiple quarters.

Yeah that tripped me up when I first applied. I had most of my earnings in one quarter from overtime and bonuses.

That's good advice. I should document everything and try to resolve it internally first.

Definitely document everything! Keep emails, write down dates and times of conversations. If you do quit and need to appeal a disqualification, you'll want all that evidence.

Did it take long to get connected through their service?

Much faster than trying to call myself. I think it was same day or next day. Way better than the weeks I spent trying to get through the regular way.

How many job searches do you need to do per week?

I think it's 3 job search activities per week, but they can be different things like applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc. Check the Washington ESD website for the current requirements.

True, but it can be confusing to navigate when you're already stressed about losing your job.

Absolutely agree. That's why getting good information upfront is so important.

Perfect summary, thank you! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more informed about my options now.

This is exactly the kind of info I wish I had when I was dealing with my unemployment claim. Would have saved me a lot of stress and confusion.

Good point. I'll make sure to be completely accurate if I need to file.

Yes, and keep copies of everything you submit. The adjudication process can take weeks and you might need to reference your original claim information.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I feel much more prepared to handle whatever happens.