How long does unemployment last in Washington - maximum benefit duration?

Thanks! So that's about 6 months total if I use all 26 weeks?

Exactly, 26 weeks equals roughly 6 months of benefits assuming you're eligible each week.

During the pandemic there were extended benefits programs like PEUC that added extra weeks. Those programs ended in 2021. Regular state unemployment is back to the standard 26 weeks.

oh ok that makes sense then

Good point about the job search requirements. How many job contacts do I need to make each week?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, etc.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents without waiting on hold forever. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Yeah I'm definitely looking for work. Just nice to know I have this safety net while I search.

exactly! use the time wisely

Yes, if you work and earn enough wages to establish a new base year, you can potentially qualify for a new claim. But there are specific requirements about how much you need to earn and for how long.

Thanks, that's good to know for planning purposes.

You still have 8 weeks left which is 2 months. Keep pushing with your job search and consider expanding your search criteria or location if possible.

same boat here, week 20 and getting nervous

It's stressful for sure. At least we're not alone in this struggle.

I hear your frustration but 26 weeks has been the standard for decades. It's meant to be temporary assistance while you find new employment.

temporary my ass when some industries have been devastated and good jobs are scarce

Good advice, I'll start tracking this myself. Thanks!

yes this is smart planning

Desperation can definitely come through in interviews. Better to plan ahead and ramp up job search intensity around week 20 so you're not scrambling at the end.

Exactly, wish I had planned better. Eventually found work but it was close.

You can work part-time and still collect partial unemployment benefits in Washington. They use a formula to calculate how much your benefits are reduced based on your weekly earnings. Report all work and earnings when you file your weekly claim.

That's helpful to know, thanks. Might help stretch out the 26 weeks if I can find some part-time work.

Adjudication delays are so common with Washington ESD. That's another reason why Claimyr can be helpful - you can actually reach someone to check on adjudication status instead of just waiting and wondering.

Wish I had known about that service during my adjudication nightmare.

wow only 12 weeks? that's barely enough time to find anything decent

Right? Washington's system isn't perfect but at least 26 weeks gives you a real chance to find suitable work.

Good reminder! So if I have a pre-planned vacation I need to report that when filing my weekly claim?

Yes, you need to answer honestly about your availability. Being on vacation usually means you're not available for work that week.

Congrats! That must be such a relief to find something before benefits ran out.

awesome news! gives me hope since i'm on week 16

That's an important distinction I didn't realize. So filing early is better even if there might be processing delays?

Absolutely. File as soon as you become unemployed even if you think you might get called back to work quickly.