How much do you need to make for unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

Oh that's a relief! I was worried I didn't make enough. So the base period would be like January through December of last year if I file now?

Not exactly - it's the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be January-December 2024. But if you file later in the year it shifts.

You might be thinking of the high quarter requirement. You need at least $5,000 total AND at least $1,500 in your highest earning quarter. Both requirements have to be met.

Ah ok that makes sense, thanks for clarifying!

That sounds really helpful! I've been dreading trying to call them. How does it work exactly?

Basically they handle the calling for you and get you connected to a real person at Washington ESD. No more sitting on hold forever or getting hung up on.

Never heard of this before but sounds legit. Anything to avoid those endless hold times with Washington ESD!

That would actually help a lot while I'm looking for a new job. Is there a minimum weekly amount too?

Yes, the minimum weekly benefit in Washington is $295 as of 2025. But that's only if you qualify - you still need to meet the base period earnings requirements first.

I get the frustration but there have to be some requirements to prevent fraud and make sure the system is sustainable. The base period earnings test is pretty standard across most states.

yeah i guess that makes sense just wish it was easier to understand

Being laid off due to downsizing should qualify you for benefits as long as you meet the earnings requirements. If there's any dispute about the reason for separation, Washington ESD will investigate during the adjudication process.

Ok good to know. I have the layoff paperwork from HR so I should be covered.

That's reassuring! How long did it take for your claim to get approved?

About 2 weeks I think? Had to do a phone interview but it was pretty straightforward.

Good idea! I'll log into my account and check that out.

Yeah the SecureAccess Washington site has all that info. Much easier than trying to calculate it yourself.

Right, I heard about the job search requirements. Do you have to apply to a certain number of jobs each week?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep detailed records in WorkSourceWA.

How much does something like that cost? Sounds convenient but I'm already tight on money.

It's really reasonable considering how much time and frustration it saves. Plus getting your unemployment sorted out faster is worth it.

Perfect, thanks for doing the math! I feel much better about applying now.

You're right, I'm probably overthinking it. I'll file this week.

Exactly! And if there are any issues with your claim, you can always appeal or get help sorting it out.

That's good to hear! I was worried it would take forever.

yeah as long as everything is straightforward it goes pretty quick now

Good thinking! I'll gather all that stuff before I start the application.

Also helpful to have your bank info ready if you want direct deposit instead of waiting for a debit card.

Yeah I should probably read through their website more carefully instead of just googling random questions lol

Haha exactly! Their FAQ section actually has most of the answers you need.

Thanks everyone! This thread has been super helpful. I feel much more confident about filing now.

Let us know how it goes! Always helpful to hear success stories.

Good to know there are backup options if I get stuck somewhere in the process.

Yeah don't feel like you have to figure everything out on your own. There's help available if you need it.

It's definitely improved over the years. Still has its frustrations but way better than it used to be.

Agreed! Everyone here has been so helpful in explaining how it all works.