How many months of unemployment can you get from Washington ESD?

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? I worked steady for 2 years making about $18/hour so hopefully I qualify for the full amount.

Wait, I thought there were extensions available sometimes? During COVID there were extra weeks, are those still around?

Regular state UI is 26 weeks max. Extensions only happen during special circumstances or high unemployment periods, but those federal programs ended. Right now it's just the standard 26 weeks.

This is confusing - how do I know what my base year is? I started my job in January 2023 and got laid off last month.

If you filed in January 2025, your base year would be October 2023 through September 2024. Washington ESD will calculate this automatically when you file your claim online.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents by phone. I was able to speak with someone the same day I used it. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo showing how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Worth it when you've been waiting weeks.

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

They focus on getting you connected rather than the cost. When you're dealing with weeks of adjudication delays, it's worth checking out their demo to see if it makes sense for your situation.

Oh no, I had a 3 month gap between jobs in 2024. Does that mean I won't get the full 26 weeks?

Not necessarily. It depends on your total earnings in the base year quarters. The gap matters less than your total qualifying wages.

What counts as job search activities? I've been applying online but wasn't keeping track.

Applications, networking events, job fairs, contacting employers directly, creating profiles on job sites - but you need to log them with Washington ESD. Keep detailed records!

You also need to register with WorkSourceWA within 4 weeks of filing your claim or you could be disqualified.

Good to know. I might try to pick up some gig work while I'm looking for full time employment.

Just make sure you report all earnings on your weekly claim. Even $20 needs to be reported or you could face an overpayment demand later.

Once you exhaust your 26 weeks, that's it for regular UI unless Congress authorizes extensions. You might be eligible for other programs like job training assistance, but no more unemployment payments.

Look into Washington's job training programs. Some let you continue receiving benefits while you learn new skills.

I'll check that out. Really hoping to find something before I run out of weeks.

You can file a new claim if you've worked since your last claim and earned enough wages in a new base year. But you can't have two overlapping benefit years.

I think you need to work at least 680 hours or earn 6 times your weekly benefit amount to qualify for a new claim, but I'm not 100% sure on the exact requirements.

The website is terrible. I've had better luck calling early in the morning, but even then it's hit or miss.

I used Claimyr after weeks of trying to reach them about my disqualification. Finally got through to an agent who explained my options for appealing. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get answers.

I might have to try that. This whole process is so stressful when you're already dealing with job loss.

Yes, you can collect Washington ESD benefits from another state as long as you continue filing weekly claims and meet job search requirements. You'll need to register with that state's workforce agency for job search purposes.

Make sure to notify Washington ESD about your move. They need to know your new address and you might need to adjust your job search activities.

That's brutal. So if they take forever to approve you, you get fewer total weeks of benefits?

Exactly. That's why it's important to file as soon as you become unemployed and follow up on any issues immediately.

Yes, Washington allows partial unemployment benefits. They'll reduce your weekly benefit based on how much you earn, but you might still get some unemployment if your part-time wages are low enough.

The formula is complicated but basically they subtract your earnings from your weekly benefit amount. Just make sure to report every penny you earn.

This is great advice. I waited 2 weeks thinking I'd find something fast and basically lost 2 weeks of benefits.

Good point. I filed the day after I got laid off. Hopefully that was fast enough.

Have you looked into any training programs? Some of them let you extend benefits while you're learning new skills.

I've been using Claimyr to stay in touch with my Washington ESD case worker about potential training opportunities. Having direct contact with an agent makes it easier to understand all your options.

I didn't know you could have a case worker. I should look into that.