How long is unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about my timeframe

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? I was hoping maybe there were exceptions for certain industries or situations.

Yep, 26 weeks is the standard maximum. There can be extended benefits during high unemployment periods but that's rare and not in effect right now.

Good point about the work search requirements. How many job contacts do I need per week?

It's 3 job search activities per week minimum. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records in case Washington ESD asks for verification.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an agent. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Really? That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

It's worth it compared to spending all day calling and getting nowhere. The main thing is it actually works - I got connected to an agent within a few hours instead of weeks of trying on my own.

What's the base period? I worked full time for about 2 years before getting laid off.

Base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you filed. With 2 years of work you should qualify for the full duration.

Oh no, I didn't realize that! So I need to file every single week even if I'm looking for work?

Yes, you must file your weekly claim every week by the deadline (usually Sunday night) or you forfeit that week's benefits. Set a reminder!

What counts as 'suitable work'? Can they force me to take a job that pays way less than my previous job?

Generally after a few weeks they expect you to consider jobs that pay less than your previous wage. The standards change over time during your benefit period.

That's reassuring to hear you're making it work. Are you finding decent job opportunities in your field?

Some good leads but the market is still tough. The 26 weeks gives you breathing room to be selective rather than taking the first thing that comes along.

Yeah, there are other programs like standby benefits for certain union workers, but regular unemployment insurance is what most people get - 26 weeks maximum.

It starts from when you filed your claim, not when you were laid off. That's why it's important to file as soon as possible after becoming unemployed.

Good to know, thanks. At least I only waited a week.

That's encouraging! Did you have to do anything special when you found the job to stop your benefits?

Just report your return to work on your weekly claim. Washington ESD will automatically stop your benefits once you're working full time again.

How does part-time work affect the benefits? I might have some freelance opportunities.

You can earn up to a certain amount before it reduces your weekly benefit. Report all earnings honestly on your weekly claims.

Wait, can you explain that more? I thought I had to use all 26 weeks consecutively.

No, you have a full year to claim your benefits. So if you work for a few weeks then become unemployed again, you can continue claiming until you've used all 26 weeks or the benefit year ends.

Definitely worth trying Claimyr if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. I used it twice and both times got connected to an agent who could answer my specific questions about benefit duration and other issues.

Good to hear a real review. I'll check out their website and that demo video.

Thanks for the reminder. I'm definitely taking the job search seriously.

Good advice. What's the best way to track job search activities?

I keep a simple spreadsheet with date, company, position, type of activity (application, follow-up, networking, etc.) and results. Washington ESD accepts this format.

Correct, 26 weeks is the maximum for regular UI benefits. There are no federal or state extensions currently in effect.

That's a good way to think about it. I definitely don't want to get too comfortable and need to stay motivated.

Got it - this is really my one shot for now. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info about the 26 week limit and other requirements.

Multiple people have mentioned Claimyr now so it seems legit. I'll definitely consider it if I run into issues.

Yeah, when you're dealing with a 26-week limit, you don't want to waste time trying to get answers. Better to get help quickly and focus on job searching.