Washington ESD unemployment eligibility with DACA status - anyone know?

That's a relief! My DACA doesn't expire until next year so I should be good. Do I need to upload any special documents when I apply online?

You'll go through the standard application process on the Washington ESD website. They may ask for your work authorization documentation during the review process, so have your Employment Authorization Document ready.

Good to know it worked out for you! How long did it take for your claim to get approved?

took about 3 weeks but that was because they had to verify my employment history with my previous employer

I worked full-time for almost 2 years so I think I should meet the work requirements. Thanks for clarifying!

Wait, what are the work requirements exactly? I might be in a similar situation soon.

You need to have earned at least $3,400 in your base year and worked in at least two quarters. Washington ESD's website has the exact calculation details.

Thanks for the tip! Hopefully I won't need it but good to know there are options if I can't get through.

How much does that service cost? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to talk to someone at ESD.

I agree it's frustrating, but when you're stuck in limbo with your claim, sometimes you need help getting through. The service focuses on actually connecting you with agents rather than leaving you on hold for hours.

That's a good point. I'll try to be patient if it takes a while. Better to know upfront that delays might happen.

My cousin had DACA and it took almost 6 weeks for his claim to get approved, but he did get it eventually with full back pay.

I didn't know that! Thanks for the heads up. I'll make sure to file weekly even if I'm still waiting for approval.

Yeah this is super important. I lost out on 3 weeks of benefits because nobody told me I had to keep filing while waiting.

Exactly! The weekly claims are how you claim each week of benefits. If you don't file them, you can't get paid for those weeks even if your claim gets approved later.

The job search requirements are the same regardless of immigration status. You'll need to log your job search activities and be able and available for work just like any other claimant.

Got it, thanks. I just wanted to make sure there weren't any extra hoops to jump through.

DACA recipients are eligible, but they still need to meet all the other requirements like sufficient work history and earnings. The denial might have been for other reasons.

That makes sense. He only worked part-time for like 8 months, so maybe that was the issue.

Yeah, part-time for 8 months probably wouldn't meet the earnings requirement. It's not about the DACA status, it's about not having enough qualifying wages.

I feel you. The ESD website is not user-friendly at all. Half the time the links don't even work properly.

At least this forum is helpful! I'm getting way better info here than on the official site.

True, I might as well just go for it. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!

Definitely apply. Based on what you've described, you should qualify. Good luck!

Good point! I moved recently so I'll double-check that my address is current before I apply.

And set up text alerts if they offer them. Sometimes those are faster than waiting for mail.

It's possible but not common. As long as your work authorization was valid during your employment and when you filed, you should be fine. Keep copies of everything just in case.

ok thanks. better safe than sorry i guess

That's encouraging! It sounds like as long as I have everything in order, it should be fine.

How long were you able to collect benefits? Is there any limit for DACA recipients?

Same as everyone else - up to 26 weeks depending on your earnings history. DACA status doesn't change the benefit duration.

A couple people have mentioned that service now. Might be worth bookmarking just in case I need it.

I'm skeptical of paying for something that should be free, but I guess if you're desperate to get answers...

I was skeptical too, but after spending weeks trying to get through on my own, it was worth it to actually talk to someone who could help resolve my issue.

You'll need a Social Security Number for unemployment benefits. DACA recipients are eligible for SSNs, so you should apply for one if you don't have it already.

oh ok that makes sense. i thought itin might work but ssn makes more sense for employment stuff