How long does unemployment last for Washington ESD claimants in 2025?

Thanks! I worked full-time for almost 3 years before getting laid off, so I should qualify for the full 26 weeks then?

Yes, with 3 years of steady work you should definitely qualify for the maximum duration. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims and meeting job search requirements.

What kind of disqualifications could shorten it? I was laid off due to company downsizing, not fired for cause.

Being laid off for downsizing shouldn't cause any disqualifications. I meant things like quitting without good cause or being fired for misconduct. You should be fine.

How much does that service cost? I'm already tight on money with being unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site for current info. For me, getting through once was better than spending hours calling daily and never reaching anyone.

I've heard of that service too. Seems legit if you really need to talk to someone at Washington ESD quickly.

Yeah I saw that on the website. Do I need to register with WorkSource too?

Yes, you need to register with WorkSourceWA and keep a log of your job search activities. They can audit this at any time.

Wait, so it's not automatically 26 weeks? How do they calculate it exactly?

It's based on your wages during the base period (first 4 of the last 5 quarters before you filed). If you had lower wages in some quarters, you get fewer weeks. It's super confusing.

This is why it's important to look at your monetary determination letter when you first file. It will show exactly how many weeks you qualify for.

No, all the pandemic-era extensions (PEUC, PUA, etc.) ended in 2021. Right now it's just the standard state benefits - up to 26 weeks maximum.

Thanks for clarifying. So no federal extensions at all anymore?

Correct, no federal extensions unless Congress passes new legislation, which isn't happening right now.

What's a benefit year exactly?

It's the 52-week period starting from when you first filed your claim. Your claim stays active during this time even if you go back to work temporarily.

You're thinking of Extended Benefits (EB), but Washington's unemployment rate isn't high enough to trigger those right now. That only happens during severe economic downturns.

Ah okay, thanks for the correction. So for now it's just the regular 26 weeks max.

Good luck with your job search! The warehouse industry has been pretty active lately so you might find something sooner than expected.

Make sure to save copies of all your job applications and keep detailed records. Washington ESD can request this information at any time.

Yeah definitely! I'm already applying places. The unemployment is just to help while I search, not replace working.

Exactly the right attitude. Good luck!

I'll keep that in mind if I run into problems. Hopefully the process stays smooth though!

I used them too when my claim went into adjudication. Much better than trying to call directly.

Unfortunately no, not unless there's a major economic crisis that triggers extended benefits. The 26 weeks is designed to be temporary assistance while you search for new employment.

thats rough. guess you really gotta hustle with the job search then

Good point. I'll cross that bridge if I come to it, but hopefully I'll find work before then.

That's the goal! Most people do find work within the 26-week period.

What counts as suitable work? Does it have to be the same type of job I had before?

Generally it needs to be work you're qualified for and pays at least a certain percentage of your previous wages. The requirements get less strict as time goes on.

Early in your claim period, you can be more selective. But after several weeks, you may need to consider jobs that pay less or are outside your usual field.

Makes sense. I definitely want to get back to work as soon as possible anyway.

That's the right mindset. The benefits are there to help you through the transition, not as a long-term solution.

Oh interesting! So I could take a part-time job and still get some unemployment?

Yes, but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claims. They'll reduce your benefit amount based on what you earn, but you might still qualify for some payment.

This is called 'partial unemployment' and it can be a good way to transition back to full-time work while maintaining some income security.

There are some training programs that can extend your eligibility, but they have to be pre-approved by Washington ESD. It's not automatic and not available for all types of training.

Thanks! I'll look into that if I decide to do some skills training during my job search.

Exactly what I needed to hear. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!

Good luck with your job search. You've got a good attitude about it!

Good to know there are options if I need help navigating the system.

Definitely. Don't suffer in silence if you run into problems - there are people and services available to help unemployed workers.

Same here! Really appreciate everyone taking the time to explain everything.

Happy to help. That's what these forums are for - supporting each other through the unemployment process.