If you are laid off can you collect unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Yes, you can definitely file for unemployment if you were laid off through no fault of your own. Since it was company downsizing and not performance-related, you should qualify. You'll need to file your initial claim on the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. Make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months ready.

Layoffs definitely qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington. The key is that it wasn't due to misconduct or poor performance. You'll need to create an account on SecureAccess Washington (SAW) if you don't have one already. The process is pretty straightforward - just answer all the questions honestly about your work history and the reason for separation.

been there, it sucks but you should be fine for benefits. one thing though - if you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD on the phone (and you probably will), there's this service called Claimyr that can help you get connected to an actual agent. saved me hours of calling when i had issues with my claim. check out claimyr.com

OMG yes you can collect! I was laid off in March and it was so scary at first but the process isn't too bad. Just make sure you keep track of all your job search activities because you'll need to report them when you file your weekly claims. They require you to look for work and keep a log of where you applied.

Sorry to hear about the layoff. Yes, you should qualify for benefits. The maximum weekly benefit amount in Washington is $999 per week, but it depends on your earnings history. You might want to gather your pay stubs from the last year to help with the application.

layoffs are the worst but at least you'll get benefits. just dont expect it to be quick - took forever for mine to get approved

One more important thing - you'll need to register with WorkSourceWA as part of your job search requirements. It's free and they have job postings and career services. You can do it online at worksourcewa.com.

The Washington ESD system is so backed up right now. I've been trying to call them for weeks about my claim and can never get through. It's incredibly frustrating when you need help and can't reach anyone.

Make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week, even if your initial claim is still being processed. You can't get retroactive benefits for weeks you didn't file. The deadline is Saturday at midnight each week.

I was laid off too and the whole process was overwhelming at first. But honestly, Washington ESD is pretty good about approving legitimate layoff claims. Just be patient and thorough with your application.

One thing to be aware of - if you received severance pay, it might affect when your benefits start. Washington ESD considers severance as wages, so there could be a delay depending on how much you received.

been unemployed for 6 months now and the job market is brutal. at least you'll have some income while you search. make sure you cast a wide net with applications

Don't forget that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your benefits or pay them when you file your tax return. I'd recommend having them withheld so you don't get hit with a big tax bill later.

The good news is that layoffs are pretty straightforward for unemployment approval. It's not like being fired for cause where they have to investigate. Your employer will probably confirm the layoff when Washington ESD contacts them.

I hate that we even have to deal with this stuff. Companies just dump people and then we have to jump through hoops to get basic support. The whole system is messed up.

Quick tip - take screenshots of your job applications and save confirmation emails. Washington ESD sometimes asks for proof of your job search activities, and it's easier to have everything documented from the start.

Remember you can only collect unemployment for up to 26 weeks in Washington (unless there are special extensions). So use that time wisely to find your next job.

If you run into any issues with your claim getting stuck or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, seriously consider using Claimyr. I wasted so much time trying to call on my own before I found that service. Would have saved me weeks of stress.

good luck with everything. layoffs are tough but you'll get through it. the unemployment benefits will help bridge the gap while you find something new

One last thing - make sure your contact information is up to date with Washington ESD. If they need to reach you about your claim and can't, it can cause delays. Check your account regularly for any messages or requests for additional information.