If I get laid off can I get unemployment benefits in Washington State?

That's a relief to hear. Do I need to wait until I'm actually laid off to file, or can I file beforehand?

You have to wait until your actual last day of work. You can't file before then, but definitely don't wait longer than necessary after that date.

Good point about getting documentation. Should I ask for anything specific from HR?

Ask for a separation notice or layoff letter that clearly states you were laid off due to lack of work or company restructuring. Washington ESD might ask for this during your claim process.

What's the base period exactly? And how much do I need to have earned?

Your base period is typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. For 2025, you'd need at least $1,300 in your highest quarter and total base period wages of at least 1.25 times that highest quarter amount.

That sounds confusing but if you've worked full-time for 2 years you're definitely good on the wage requirements.

Oh no, really? I was hoping the process would be straightforward. How did you eventually get help?

I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual Washington ESD agent. They have this demo video (https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ) that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting busy signals.

Never heard of that but sounds useful. The phone situation with Washington ESD is definitely frustrating.

3 per week doesn't sound too bad. Does it have to be actual applications or can it include networking?

It can include various activities - job applications, networking events, career fairs, informational interviews. Just make sure you document everything properly in your job search log.

How long did it take for you? I'm worried about covering bills if there's a long delay.

like 6 weeks total but most of that was waiting for them to process my claim. once approved payments came weekly

There's typically a one-week waiting period, then if your claim is straightforward it should process within 2-3 weeks. Layoffs are usually pretty quick since the reason is clear.

Is there a way to estimate what I might get before filing?

Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website, but you'll need your wage information handy. Your employer should be able to give you a wage statement if needed.

Weekly claims - is that like reporting what job search activities I did that week?

Exactly. You report whether you worked, how much you earned if any, and certify that you were able and available for work and did your required job search activities.

Yeah, trying to be prepared. Hopefully it doesn't happen but better to know what to expect.

Is online better than calling in? I usually prefer talking to a person for important stuff like this.

Online is usually faster and available 24/7. The phone lines can be very busy. But either way works for filing your initial claim.

Definitely try online first. If you run into issues later that require talking to someone, that's when something like Claimyr becomes really helpful for actually getting through.

Thanks, I appreciate that. Feeling a bit more prepared now after reading all these responses.

26 weeks seems reasonable. Hopefully I can find something before then if it comes to that.

That's the right attitude. And with your manufacturing experience, there should be opportunities out there.

What counts as 'suitable work'? Do I have to take any job that's offered?

Suitable work generally means jobs that match your skills, experience, and pay level - at least initially. The standards can become less strict the longer you're unemployed, but you don't have to take just anything right away.

Good advice about staying organized. I'll start a folder now just in case.

I'll definitely ask about that. Every bit of help would be useful in this situation.

Exactly. Some companies also provide extended health insurance coverage which is worth knowing about.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information. Feeling much more prepared for whatever happens.

I'll keep that in mind. Hopefully the online system works smoothly but good to have a backup plan.

Thanks! This thread has been really helpful for understanding the process.

Will do. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to explain everything so clearly.

Yeah, the whole industry seems uncertain right now. Thanks for the encouragement.