Washington ESD unemployment eligibility - who is eligible to collect unemployment benefits?

You likely qualify based on what you've described! Washington ESD has several basic requirements: you must be unemployed through no fault of your own (like a layoff), have sufficient work history and earnings in your base period, be able and available to work, and actively seek work. Your 14 months of combined work history should meet the earnings requirement.

i was in similar situation last year, got approved even though i only worked part time. the key thing is you have to have earned enough wages during your base period and be ready to accept suitable work

You should definitely apply! The worst they can do is deny you, but based on your situation it sounds like you'd qualify. Make sure you file as soon as possible since there's a waiting week before benefits start. You'll need to register with WorkSource and do job searches every week.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask questions about eligibility, I had success using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually reach an agent. They have this system that gets you connected without waiting on hold forever. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Really helped me get my questions answered quickly.

The eligibility requirements are pretty straightforward but there are some nuances. You need to have worked in covered employment (most regular jobs qualify), earned sufficient wages during your base period, be unemployed through no fault of your own, and meet the ongoing requirements like job searching and being available for work.

One thing to watch out for - if you quit your job instead of being laid off, you might not qualify. But being let go due to lack of work should definitely qualify you. Also make sure you don't have any disqualifying issues like being fired for misconduct.

just apply online through the washington esd website, its pretty easy. you'll find out quick if you qualify or not. better to try than wonder

Also remember that you can work part-time while collecting unemployment as long as you report your earnings. Your benefit amount will be reduced but you might still receive some unemployment compensation depending on how much you earn.

You mentioned restaurant work - just FYI that tips count as wages for unemployment purposes if they were reported to your employer. Make sure you have accurate records of your total earnings including tips.

dont stress too much about it, the application will walk you through everything and tell you what documents you need. washington esd has gotten better at making the process clearer

One more tip - file your claim for the week you became unemployed, not when you decide to apply. You can backdate under certain circumstances but it's easier to file promptly. And remember the waiting week applies to everyone.

If your claim gets stuck in adjudication or you have questions about your eligibility determination, definitely consider using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. I used them when I couldn't get clarity on my job separation issue and they helped me connect with an actual person at Washington ESD who could explain everything.

the system has gotten way better since covid, used to be a nightmare but now its pretty streamlined. you should be fine

Just make sure you understand the job search requirements before you start claiming. You'll need to make a certain number of job contacts each week and keep records. It's not difficult but you need to stay on top of it.

Also worth noting that if you have any union membership or are in certain industries, there might be specific provisions that apply to your situation. But for most regular employees, the standard eligibility rules apply.

honestly the hardest part is just getting started with the application. once you file and get into the routine of weekly claims its not bad at all. go for it!

Good luck with your claim! Just remember to file your weekly claims on time every week and keep up with job search requirements. Most people who are laid off like you were have no issues getting approved.

One last thing - if you do get approved, your benefit amount is based on your past earnings, so don't expect it to fully replace your wages. But it should help while you're looking for new work.

Glad I could help with the Claimyr suggestion! Even if you don't need it for eligibility questions, it's super useful if you ever need to talk to someone about claim issues later on. The regular phone lines can be brutal to get through.

seems like you've got all the info you need. good luck with your job search too - the market is pretty decent right now for restaurant workers from what i hear