Washington ESD unemployment eligibility requirements - how to qualify for unemployment benefits?

Thanks! What counts as the base period? I'm not sure which quarters they'd be looking at for my wages.

Your base period is typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file now in 2025, they'd look at your wages from Q1 2024 through Q4 2024.

I definitely got laid off, they closed our whole department. Do I need any special paperwork from my employer?

Keep any layoff notice or termination paperwork they gave you. Washington ESD will contact your employer directly to verify the reason for separation, but having documentation helps.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying for jobs online?

Job applications, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, networking events, or using employment services all count. You need to keep detailed records of what you did, when, and who you contacted.

The job search requirement is such a pain. I spend more time documenting my searches than actually looking for work sometimes.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for weeks with no luck.

Yeah it worked for me. You can check it out at claimyr.com. Saved me a lot of frustration trying to get through on my own.

It's better to understand the requirements first so you know what to expect and can gather the right documentation.

Yes, all wages count whether from full-time or part-time work, as long as they were reported to Washington ESD by your employers.

Make sure your employers actually reported your wages though. Sometimes smaller employers mess this up and it can delay your claim.

How do they calculate the exact amount you get each week?

It's roughly 3.85% of your wages in your highest quarter, but there's a formula they use. Washington ESD will calculate it for you when you file your claim.

What happens during adjudication? Should I be worried about that?

It just means they're investigating something about your claim. Could be your reason for separation, wages, or eligibility. They'll contact you if they need more information.

That's actually another situation where Claimyr helped me - I was able to talk to an agent about what was happening with my adjudication instead of just waiting and wondering.

You need to be authorized to work in the US, but you don't have to be a citizen. Having a valid work permit should be fine as long as you meet the other requirements.

I was laid off about 3 weeks ago but just now looking into this. Did I miss out on those weeks?

Unfortunately yes, you can only get benefits starting the week you file your claim. But file now so you don't lose any more weeks.

I tried reading it but it's really hard to understand. That's why I asked here for help breaking it down.

The website can be overwhelming for first-time filers. It's normal to need help understanding the requirements.

Thank you so much! This really helps. I'm going to gather my paperwork and file this week.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice!

Great advice. Also screenshot your weekly claims after you submit them, just in case there are any disputes later.

Generally no, independent contractors don't qualify for regular unemployment benefits. But there might be other programs available depending on your situation.

Some contractors might qualify if they were misclassified as independent contractors when they should have been employees. It depends on the specific work arrangement.

I might try that. I've been calling for 2 weeks and can never get through.

Feel free to ask if you have specific questions about your situation!

How long does it usually take to get the first payment?

If there are no issues with your claim, usually 2-3 weeks after you file. Longer if they need to investigate anything.

Yes, they do audit job search records sometimes. Better to keep detailed logs from the beginning.

You're welcome! Good luck with your claim.