Washington ESD unemployment - for how long can i receive unemployment benefits?

Thanks! So that means I have about 6 months total? That should give me time to find something decent.

actually it depends on your base period earnings too, some people dont qualify for the full 26 weeks if they didnt work enough

Good to know about the job search requirement. Do I have to use WorkSourceWA for all of them?

No you can use any legitimate job search methods. Just keep good records in case Washington ESD asks for your job search log.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Is that legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

Yeah it worked for me. They basically call for you and get you connected to an actual person at Washington ESD. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

I understand the frustration but the rules exist for good reasons. The 26 week limit ensures the system stays solvent for everyone who needs it.

whatever. still doesn't explain why they make it so hard to get basic information

Each benefit year is separate. If you work enough after your current claim ends and then become unemployed again, you can file a new claim. But you need to have sufficient earnings in your new base period.

Ok that makes sense. So it's not like a lifetime limit or anything.

right but you cant just work for a few weeks and then file again, you need substantial work history

Yes, Washington has partial unemployment benefits. You can work part-time and still collect some UI as long as you report all your earnings when you file your weekly claim. The amount gets reduced based on what you earn.

That's good to know! I was worried about taking a temporary part-time gig.

Currently there are no federal or state extensions available for regular unemployment. The 26 weeks is the maximum unless Congress passes emergency legislation during a recession.

That's scary to think about. Really puts pressure on finding something before the benefits run out.

How much does Claimyr cost? Is it worth it just to check on benefit weeks?

It's worth it if you need to talk to someone urgently about your claim. Much faster than trying to get through yourself.

Good point. I would never risk that anyway but thanks for the warning.

Have you been working with WorkSourceWA? They have career counselors who can help with your job search strategy.

Yeah I've been to a few workshops. Just feels like there's so much competition for every decent job posting.

hang in there, something will come up. maybe expand your search area or consider different industries?

Washington eliminated the waiting week a few years ago. You can get paid for your first week of unemployment as long as your claim is approved.

Oh that's good news! I was thinking I'd only get 25 weeks of actual payments.

You still need to file during your assigned filing week even if there's a holiday. The system stays open but there might be delays in processing payments.

That's amazing! I might try it if I run into any issues with my claim.

seems too good to be true but if it works it works i guess

Good tip! I should check that more regularly so I know exactly where I stand.

What counts as 'suitable work'? Is there a definition somewhere?

Generally work that matches your skills and pays at least 80% of your previous wage. But it can be complicated depending on your situation.

Agreed! Feel much more confident about navigating my unemployment claim now.

Good to know there are options even after the 26 weeks are used up, assuming you can find work first.

Yeah I can see how that would add pressure. Trying to stay positive and use the time productively for job searching.

That's a good distinction to understand. So even if I find work and get laid off again within my benefit year, I can't file a new claim?

Correct, you'd have to wait until your current benefit year expires to file a new claim with new wages.