How many weeks can you draw unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thanks! So I have to file something every single week? What happens if I miss a week?

Yes, you must file your weekly claim every week by the deadline (usually Sunday night). If you miss a week, you won't get paid for that week and it could affect your ongoing eligibility.

I haven't gotten any letter yet, how long does that usually take?

Should come within a week or two of filing your initial claim. You can also check online through your SecureAccess Washington account.

I had the same problem until someone told me about Claimyr - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

Never heard of that but willing to try anything at this point. The phone system is absolutely terrible.

Claimyr actually worked for me too when I needed to talk to someone about my adjudication status. Much easier than the regular phone nightmare.

What counts as a job contact? Does applying online count or do I need to actually talk to someone?

Online applications count, but you need to keep records of where you applied, when, and what position. Phone calls to employers, networking contacts, and job interviews all count too.

No, regular unemployment in Washington is still up to 26 weeks. You might be thinking of some of the federal pandemic programs that ended in 2021.

oh ok that makes sense, there were so many different programs during that time

After your regular benefits are exhausted, there's no automatic extension. However, you may be able to file a new claim if you've worked enough since your last claim started. Otherwise you'd need to look into other assistance programs.

There used to be extended benefits during high unemployment periods but those aren't available right now in Washington.

That's scary! What kind of paperwork issue?

Something about not reporting some part time work correctly. The whole system is really strict about accuracy.

Do you use the website or phone to file weekly claims?

I always use the website, it's much faster than calling in. The phone system for weekly claims is just as bad as trying to reach an agent.

How did you resolve that? Did you have to call Washington ESD?

Yeah, that's when I used Claimyr to get through to an agent. They were able to clear up the verification issue in one phone call instead of me waiting weeks for them to process paperwork.

They definitely check them! I got audited around week 15 and had to provide detailed records of all my job contacts. Keep everything documented.

Good to know, I better start keeping better records then

What kinds of things can get you disqualified?

Not reporting income, failing job search requirements, refusing suitable work offers, stuff like that. Just be honest and follow all the rules.

That's good to know since I might pick up some gig work while looking for full time

Just make sure to report every penny you earn, even small amounts. Better to report too much than not enough.

That is stressful! Have you looked into job training programs or anything like that?

Yeah I'm looking at some options through WorkSource. They have some programs that can help with retraining while you're on unemployment.

Oh wow, so the clock starts ticking right away even if there are delays? That seems unfair.

Unfortunately yes, that's how the system works. All the more reason to get any issues resolved quickly by talking to an agent if needed.

Good point, I didn't even think about taxes. Can I set up withholding when I file my weekly claims?

Yes, there's an option to withhold 10% federal tax when you set up your claim or you can change it later in your account settings.

Thanks everyone, this has been really helpful! I feel much more confident about navigating the system now.

Good luck with your job search! The 26 weeks will give you a good cushion to find something that's a good fit.