How many weeks can you claim unemployment in Washington - need to know my limits

Thanks! So it's not automatically 26 weeks for everyone? How do they calculate how many weeks you actually get?

It's based on your quarterly earnings in your base period. Washington ESD looks at your highest quarter earnings to determine both your weekly benefit amount and duration. You need at least 680 hours of work in your base period to qualify.

Did you have any trouble reaching Washington ESD to ask questions about your determination? I've been trying to call for days about my claim.

Oh yeah, calling Washington ESD directly is basically impossible. I actually used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that calls for you and connects you to an agent. Saved me hours of trying to get through. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

After your regular UI benefits exhaust, there's usually no automatic extension unless Congress authorizes special programs during economic emergencies. You'd need to file a new claim if you've worked enough since your original claim.

damn that's stressful. hoping i find something before then

How much do you need to earn to qualify for a new claim? I'm getting close to exhausting my benefits.

You need to work at least 680 hours and earn wages in at least two quarters. The minimum earnings requirement varies but it's around $5,000+ in your base period to establish a new claim.

Each state runs its own unemployment program with different rules. Washington's 26 weeks is actually pretty standard - some states offer less. The benefit amounts and qualification requirements also vary by state.

ugh this is so complicated. I just want to know if I'll be okay financially while job hunting

Did you find work before your benefits ran out both times?

First time yes, found something at week 23. Second time I had to take a part-time job and do partial unemployment claims for a while. The job search requirements kept me motivated though.

Good to know! How do you file the weekly claims? Is it online or do you have to call?

You file online through your SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account. It's usually pretty easy unless there are technical issues. Just make sure to file by the deadline each week.

What happens if you miss the deadline for filing your weekly claim?

You might be able to request a late filing but it's not guaranteed. Washington ESD can deny late claims, so it's best to never miss the deadline if possible.

How long does it usually take to get that determination letter? I filed 2 weeks ago and haven't heard anything yet.

Usually 2-4 weeks if there are no issues with your claim. If it goes into adjudication for any reason, it can take much longer. You should be able to check your claim status online through your SAW account.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs?

Job applications, networking events, career fairs, interviews, even some online training courses can count. Washington ESD has a list of approved activities on their website.

Do you have to register with WorkSource too?

Yes, you need to register with WorkSourceWA within a certain timeframe. It's one of the requirements to maintain eligibility for benefits.

That's smart thinking! I didn't realize unused weeks could matter for future claims.

Well, unused weeks don't roll over to a new benefit year, but having work history helps you qualify for more weeks on your next claim if needed.

I had the same problem until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an agent. Worth every penny when you need answers about your claim status or benefit duration.

Is that legit? How does it work exactly?

Yeah it's totally legit. You just give them your info and they handle the calling and waiting. When they get an agent on the line, they connect you. Check out their demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ to see how it works.

That's helpful advice. Were you eventually able to find work or file a new claim?

Found work about 3 months after my benefits ended. It was tough but the workforce programs helped with job placement. The key is staying active in your search and using all available resources.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! This thread answered way more questions than I expected.

Agreed, this is the most comprehensive explanation I've seen about Washington unemployment duration. Saving this thread for reference!

How do you file an appeal for benefit duration? Is it the same process as appealing a disqualification?

Yes, same appeal process. You have 30 days from the determination date to file an appeal. You'll need documentation of your work history and earnings to support your case.

Congrats on finding work! Did the job search requirements help you stay motivated during those 12 weeks?

Definitely! Having to do 3 activities per week kept me active in the search. It's easy to get discouraged but the requirements help maintain momentum.