Washington ESD unemployment eligibility after release from incarceration - need guidance

Yes, you can absolutely file for unemployment benefits in Washington state after being released from incarceration. Having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you from receiving UI benefits. The key is that you need to be able and available for work, which it sounds like you are since you're actively job searching.

I went through this exact situation last year. Washington ESD processed my claim normally - they were more concerned about my work history and earnings than my criminal background. The important thing is that you meet the basic eligibility requirements: you worked enough hours, earned enough wages, and are actively seeking work.

I've been trying to get through to Washington ESD for days about a different issue and their phone lines are always busy. If you need to talk to someone directly about your specific situation, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Might be worth it if you need to discuss the details of your case with someone at Washington ESD.

The main thing Washington ESD cares about is whether you're eligible based on your work and wage history. They look at the 18 months before you file your claim to determine if you earned enough in covered employment. Your incarceration period obviously won't count as work time, but if you had sufficient earnings before that, you should be fine.

Just want to add that you'll need to meet the ongoing job search requirements while collecting benefits. Washington ESD requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. Given your situation, you might want to look into WorkSource centers - they have programs specifically designed to help people with criminal backgrounds find employment.

been there, the system is actually pretty fair about ex-offenders getting benefits. biggest thing is just being honest on your application and making sure you're really available for work

One more thing - when you file your claim, you'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, and information about your last employer. If you don't have all your employment records, Washington ESD can sometimes help verify your work history, but it's easier if you have pay stubs or tax documents.

Washington ESD's online system is pretty user-friendly for filing claims. You can do everything through their website at secure.esd.wa.gov. Just make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week once your claim is active, even if you're still waiting for approval.

I work at a reentry nonprofit and we help people with this all the time. Washington state is actually pretty good about not discriminating against people with criminal records when it comes to unemployment benefits. The main things that would disqualify you are related to work availability, not your past.

My brother went through this same thing a few years ago and Washington ESD never gave him any problems about his background. They processed his claim just like anyone else's. The hardest part was actually finding employers willing to hire him, not getting the unemployment benefits.

Just a heads up that if your claim goes into adjudication for any reason, it can take several weeks to resolve. I had to use Claimyr again last month to get through to someone about my adjudication status - saved me hours of trying to call on my own.

The waiting week has been eliminated in Washington, so if you're approved you should start receiving benefits right away for your first eligible week. That's different from some other states.

I'm in a similar situation - getting out next month. This thread has been super helpful. Sounds like Washington is better than some states I've heard about.

One thing to remember is that you can't receive UI benefits for any week that you were incarcerated, even if it was just part of the week. But once you're out and available for work, you're eligible like anyone else.

Washington ESD also has a good online chat feature if you have basic questions about your claim. Sometimes that's easier than trying to get through on the phone, though for complex issues you might still need to talk to an agent directly.

Honestly the fact that you're asking these questions and planning ahead shows you're taking the right approach. Washington ESD wants to help people get back to work, regardless of their past. Focus on meeting the basic requirements and being honest in your application.

If you do end up needing to speak with Washington ESD directly about your specific situation, I had good luck with Claimyr too. Way better than spending hours on hold trying to get through their regular phone lines. The video demo they have really explains how the whole process works.

Update us on how it goes! There are probably other people in similar situations who could benefit from hearing about your experience with the process.

Just wanted to add that you should also check if you qualify for any expedited processing. Washington ESD sometimes prioritizes claims for people who are facing financial hardship or homelessness. Given that you're recently released and struggling with basic necessities, you might be able to get your claim processed faster than the typical 3-week timeframe. When you file online, look for any options about urgent need or expedited review. It's worth asking about even if it just gets you an answer sooner rather than waiting weeks wondering about your status.