If I get laid off do I get unemployment - Washington ESD eligibility questions

Yes, if you get laid off through no fault of your own, you should qualify for Washington ESD unemployment benefits. Since you've been working full-time for 2 years, you'll definitely meet the work history requirements. You can apply online at esd.wa.gov as soon as your last day of work. The key is that layoffs are considered 'involuntary separation' which makes you eligible.

The application process is pretty straightforward but there are some things to know. You'll need to file your initial claim within a few weeks of your last day. Washington ESD requires you to be able and available for work, so make sure you're actively job searching. They also have weekly claim requirements where you report any work or income.

I was laid off last year and the whole process took forever because I couldn't get through to anyone at Washington ESD to check on my claim status. Spent weeks calling the main number and either getting busy signals or being on hold for hours before getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration.

Being laid off definitely qualifies you for UI benefits in Washington. The important thing is to file your claim as soon as possible after your separation date. Don't wait thinking you might find another job quickly - you can always stop claiming if you find work, but there's a waiting period if you delay filing.

ugh I'm going through this right now too. Got laid off 3 weeks ago and my claim is still pending. Washington ESD says they're reviewing it but won't give me any timeline. Super frustrating when you're trying to pay bills and have no idea when money will come in.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements too. Washington ESD requires you to make a certain number of job contacts each week and keep a log. It's usually 3 job contacts per week but check the current requirements when you file your claim.

One thing to be aware of is that your benefit amount is based on your wages during your 'base year' which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. Since you've been working steadily for 2 years, you should get a decent benefit amount.

Just went through this myself 6 months ago. The key things are: file immediately after your last day, be completely honest about why you were laid off, and keep detailed records of your job search activities. Also make sure to file your weekly claims on time every week - if you miss filing a week, you lose that week's benefits.

The system is so broken honestly. I was laid off and it took 6 weeks to get my first payment because they said they needed to 'verify' my employment even though I provided all the documentation. Meanwhile bills are piling up and Washington ESD acts like it's no big deal.

Don't let the horror stories scare you too much. Most straightforward layoff claims get approved without major issues. Just make sure you file online at secure.esd.wa.gov, keep copies of everything, and stay on top of your weekly claims. You've got this!

Another thing - if your claim does get stuck in adjudication for some reason, don't just wait around hoping it resolves itself. I learned this the hard way when mine sat in limbo for a month. That Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually helped me get answers about what was holding up my claim.

Make sure you also understand what counts as suitable work for your job search requirements. Generally it needs to be in your field or pay at least 80% of your previous wage initially, but the requirements can change over time as your claim continues.

Been there, it sucks but you'll get through it. Just remember that unemployment benefits are meant to be temporary assistance while you find new work, not a long-term solution. Use the time wisely to job search and maybe even upgrade your skills.

Quick tip - when you file your initial claim, you might get asked about severance pay or vacation payout from your employer. This can affect when your benefits start, so be prepared to provide accurate information about any final payments.

The online application is pretty user-friendly actually. Just have your Social Security number, employment history for the past 2 years, and bank account info ready for direct deposit. Takes about 30-45 minutes to complete if you have everything ready.

Word of advice - start networking and job searching even before you officially get laid off if possible. The job market can be competitive and the sooner you start making connections, the better your chances of landing something quickly.

If you do end up having issues with your claim, document everything - dates you called, who you spoke to, what they told you. It's sad that you have to do this, but it can be helpful if you need to escalate issues or file an appeal later.

Don't forget that you can also check if your employer offers any additional benefits or services for laid-off employees - sometimes they have partnerships with job placement services or will extend health insurance coverage.

Hang in there - being laid off is stressful but you're already being proactive by asking questions and preparing. That's exactly the right approach. You'll figure this out and hopefully find an even better opportunity!

I went through a similar layoff situation about 18 months ago and wanted to share a few practical tips that really helped me. First, when you file your claim, take screenshots of every page - the system occasionally glitches and you'll want proof of what you submitted. Second, set up a dedicated email folder for all ESD communications so nothing gets lost in your inbox. Third, if you have any side income (freelance work, gig economy stuff), make sure you understand how to report it properly on your weekly claims - even small amounts need to be reported and can affect your benefits. The whole process is definitely overwhelming at first, but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims it becomes much more manageable. You've got good instincts asking questions ahead of time!