Washington ESD - how to qualify for unemployment benefits after getting laid off?

That's helpful! So they count wages from multiple employers during that time period?

Yes exactly, all covered employment counts toward your base period earnings.

It was definitely a layoff - company had budget cuts and let go of about 15 people.

That should qualify you then. Make sure to file as soon as possible since there's a waiting period.

Same here! I've called probably 50 times and either get busy signal or disconnected after waiting on hold for an hour.

I actually found a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Basically they keep calling for you until they reach someone, then connect you to the agent.

Interesting, I might have to try that. Did it actually work for you?

Yeah, got connected to an agent within about 2 hours instead of me spending days trying to call myself.

What are the current job search requirements? Do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs each week?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log of them. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, etc.

You need to register with WorkSourceWA within 4 weeks of filing your initial claim, but you can file the claim first.

Make sure to do it though - they'll stop your benefits if you don't register and complete the required activities.

I feel your pain. The adjudication process is horrible right now.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr to get through - adjudication issues really need to be resolved by talking to an actual person.

Maybe I should try that service you mentioned. I'm desperate at this point.

If you just started working this year, you probably wouldn't have enough earnings in your base period to qualify yet. You'd need to wait until you have more work history.

There is an alternate base period option in some cases, but it's more complicated. You'd need to talk to Washington ESD about your specific situation.

What kind of verification did they want? Should I have my documents ready when I apply?

yeah have your last few pay stubs and your social security card ready. they might ask for ID too

Good point, I'm a citizen so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

How much did that cost you?

It was worth it to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD instead of being stuck in phone queue hell. Much better than losing weeks of benefits waiting.

Good to know! I was laid off last Thursday so I should file this week then.

Exactly, don't wait or you'll lose those benefit weeks.

How do they calculate the weekly amount?

It's roughly 1/25th of your total base period wages, up to the maximum weekly benefit amount which changes each year.

Thanks! I'll do that this afternoon.

This is true! I thought I didn't have enough work history but turns out I barely qualified.

That's encouraging! I'll definitely apply and see what happens.

Very true. Better to try and get denied than not try at all.