How long does someone have to work for you to collect unemployment in Washington?

Oh that's confusing. So if she made more than $1,000 total in the past year she should be good?

Not exactly - it has to be within the specific quarters that make up her base period. She should check her account on SecureAccess Washington to see her wage history.

Yes, that's correct. You need earnings in at least 2 quarters of your base period, and your total base period wages need to be at least 1.5 times your highest quarter earnings.

This is getting complicated. Is there an easier way to figure out if she qualifies?

Have you tried using Claimyr? I found out about it from someone on here and it actually got me through to a Washington ESD agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Never heard of that but I'll check it out. Anything's better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

It depends on how much they earned and when they earned it. Part-time work can definitely qualify if you meet the earnings requirements. The system is designed to ensure people contributed enough to the unemployment insurance system.

I guess that makes sense but it's still frustrating for people who need help.

That's good advice. I'll tell her to go ahead and file the claim.

Exactly right. The application process will walk her through everything and she'll find out quickly if she has enough earnings.

Good point. She was laid off last Friday so I'll have her apply this week.

Yeah don't wait. Even if there are issues with the claim it's better to get it in the system early.

She was working about 25-30 hours a week so hopefully that's enough. Thanks for breaking it down clearly.

That should definitely be enough if she was getting regular hours. Restaurant work usually qualifies as long as the employer was paying into the system.

Awesome! I'm glad it helped. The service at claimyr.com has been a lifesaver for getting through to agents when you actually need to talk to someone.

That's great to hear. I might need to try that myself if I run into issues with my claim.

The requirements can be confusing but they're designed to make sure the system is fair. Once you understand the basics it's not too bad.

Yeah the quarter system is weird but it makes sense once you see how it works.

What kind of other programs? She's not a student or anything like that.

There might be workforce development programs or other assistance. Washington ESD can provide information about what's available.

That's encouraging! I'll tell her to go ahead and apply.

Exactly. The system does the calculations. Just be honest about work history and earnings.

That makes me feel better about telling her to apply. Sounds like the system will sort it out.

Good to know. I'll make sure she understands the ongoing requirements.

The weekly claims are pretty straightforward - just report any work and earnings honestly each week.

So glad it worked out! It's frustrating when you can't get through using the regular phone lines.

That's great news! Good thing she didn't let uncertainty stop her from applying.

Awesome! Hope she finds a new job soon but at least she has some income support in the meantime.

Perfect example of why it's worth applying even when you're not sure about eligibility. Glad it worked out for her.