My unemployment ran out can I file a new claim - Washington ESD options?

Oh that makes sense... so since I wasn't working while collecting benefits, I might not have enough recent wages for a new claim?

Exactly. They'll look at quarters before your most recent claim started. If those wages are sufficient, you might qualify.

Did you end up qualifying for a new claim? How did you figure out if you had enough wages?

I had to call Washington ESD to get them to check my wage records. Took forever to get through though. You might want to try that Claimyr service I heard about - they help you get through to ESD agents faster. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

My original claim was filed in March 2024, so it hasn't been a full year yet. Sounds like I need to find out about those unused quarters.

Right, so they'll look at wages from quarters they didn't count in your original base period. If those wages are enough, you could qualify for a new claim amount.

This is why the whole system is so confusing! They should just make it simpler to understand.

I haven't done anything yet, still trying to figure out if it's even worth applying. Maybe we should both try calling to ask about our wage records?

Good luck getting through! I've been trying for days. The phone lines are always busy.

I used claimyr.com recently to get through to ESD and it actually worked. Saved me hours of redialing. Worth checking out if you're having phone troubles.

That's what I'm worried about. But I had good wages before my original claim, so maybe there are unused quarters that could work?

It's definitely worth checking rather than assuming you don't qualify. The worst they can do is say no.

That's a good point. I've been so focused on the benefits side that I haven't really ramped up job searching yet.

Yeah, and if you do get a new claim approved, you'll need to meet the job search requirements anyway. Might as well get a head start.

The rules exist to prevent people from gaming the system, but I agree they can be confusing for legitimate claimants.

Still doesn't make sense why someone who worked for years should be denied just because of timing.

How much wages do I need to earn to qualify for a new claim?

You need at least $1,000 in your highest quarter and total wages of at least 1.25 times your highest quarter amount across your base period.

OK that helps. I think I might meet those requirements from my wages before the original claim.

That's an interesting point. I could probably find some temporary work to boost my wage records.

Exactly. Even part-time work can help build up your base period for a future claim.

Did you have success filing a new claim after your benefits ran out?

yeah but i had worked some between my claims which helped. every situation is different though

Wait, I'd have to do another waiting week? I thought that was just for first-time claims.

No, each new benefit year requires a waiting week. It's one of the requirements for starting fresh.

That's so annoying! Another week without benefits just to start over.

What exactly does Claimyr do? Is it legit?

Yeah it's legitimate. They basically handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you to an ESD agent. Saved me like 3 hours of redialing.

You're absolutely right. I need to get this sorted out quickly one way or another.

Good thinking. I should have all my pay stubs somewhere. Thanks for all the help everyone!

Good luck with whatever you decide to do. Hope it works out for you.