Washington ESD - what are the three main types of unemployment benefits available?

Thank you! That makes sense. Since I was permanently laid off, regular UI sounds right for me.

Just make sure you meet the work history requirements - you need to have worked in at least two quarters in your base period.

Oh wow, I didn't know about the job search log requirement. Where do I access WorkSourceWA?

You can create an account at worksourcewa.com - it integrates with your Washington ESD claim and tracks your job search activities automatically.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr (claimyr.com). They help you get through to Washington ESD agents without waiting on hold forever. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

That sounds too good to be true... does it actually work?

It worked for me! I was able to speak with an adjudicator about my pending claim within a day instead of calling for weeks.

Yes, there are different programs depending on your situation. Regular UI is the most common one, which sounds like what you're already receiving.

good to know im on the right one then lol

My company did SharedWork during the slow season last year. It was actually pretty helpful since I kept my job and health benefits while getting partial unemployment.

That would have been nice, but my company just did straight layoffs unfortunately.

Standby is typically for seasonal workers or temporary layoffs. You can remain on standby for up to 8 weeks, but you need to have a definite return-to-work date from your employer.

That makes sense. I work construction so we have seasonal layoffs sometimes.

Just remember with standby you can't do job search activities for other employers - you're expected to return to your original job.

Adjudication can take several weeks, especially if there are any questions about your separation from work. Did you quit or were you fired?

I was laid off due to budget cuts. Should be straightforward but it's been stuck for weeks.

I was in the same situation and used Claimyr to get through to an adjudicator. They were able to explain exactly what was holding up my claim and it got resolved within a few days after that call.

How do I check if they have the right wage information?

You can view your wage and potential benefit information in your eServices account on the Washington ESD website.

I had missing wages from a previous employer and had to submit pay stubs to get them added to my claim.

Yes, there's the Training Benefits program that allows you to attend approved training while receiving UI benefits without the job search requirement.

That sounds perfect for my situation. How do I apply for training benefits?

You need to get approval from Washington ESD before starting any training program. Contact your local WorkSource office to discuss approved training options.

I agree, the website could be much clearer about the different programs available.

exactly! and good luck trying to call them to ask questions

What happens if you realize you filed for the wrong type?

You'd probably need to speak with Washington ESD to see if they can make any adjustments, but it's better to get it right the first time.

This is another reason why being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD is so important. Claimyr has been a lifesaver for getting through their phone system.

This is the clearest explanation yet! Thank you for breaking it down so simply.

Perfect summary. This should be pinned at the top of the Washington ESD website.

Wish I had seen this explanation when I first filed my claim. Would have saved me a lot of confusion.