Washington ESD when can you collect unemployment - confused about eligibility requirements

Thanks! So if I started working in March and got laid off now, would that count? I made about $2,800 per month.

Yes, that should definitely qualify you. With those earnings you'd easily meet the wage requirements. You should file your claim as soon as possible.

Of course I'm looking for work! I just want to make sure I'm eligible before I go through the whole application process.

Don't listen to that negativity. If you were laid off through no fault of your own and meet the wage requirements, you deserve those benefits. That's what the system is for.

Really? How does that work? I've been dreading trying to call because everyone says it's impossible to get through.

They basically handle all the calling and waiting for you. You just tell them what you need to discuss and they get you connected to the right department. Way better than spending your whole day redialing.

Sounds too good to be true honestly. How much do they charge?

It's not free but totally reasonable considering the time and frustration it saves. Check their site for current rates.

What counts as 'suitable work'? Does it have to be the same type of job I had before?

Generally work is considered suitable if it's in your usual occupation or one you have experience in, pays at least 70% of your average weekly wage, and is within reasonable commuting distance. The standards can change the longer you're unemployed.

This is so complicated! Why can't they just make it simple - if you lose your job, you get help. Period.

You're right, I should just apply and see what happens. Better than wondering forever.

just make sure you have all your employment info ready when you apply - dates, wages, reason for separation, etc.

That would definitely help with rent and groceries while I'm job hunting. Thanks for the estimate!

The waiting week got eliminated during COVID I think? Or did they bring it back?

You're right, the waiting week was waived during the pandemic but I believe it's back now for regular UI claims. Best to check the current rules on the Washington ESD site.

We can figure this out together! At least we know we're not alone in being confused about all this.

The online application walks you through everything step by step. It's not as scary as it seems. Just have your employment history and wage information ready.

Did you guys know you have to report any work you do while collecting benefits? Even like one day of temp work?

I hear you but the system has to have some structure to prevent fraud and make sure benefits go to people who actually worked and paid into the system.

Yeah I get that but it shouldn't be rocket science to figure out if you qualify. Half the people who need help probably give up before they even apply.

That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist - to help people navigate this confusing system and actually get the help they're entitled to.

How many job applications do you have to do per week? I'm already applying places but want to make sure I'm doing enough.

I believe it's 3 job search activities per week, but they can include applications, interviews, networking events, job fairs, etc. Keep good records of everything you do.

Good thinking! I'll gather all that stuff before I start the application. Don't want to get halfway through and realize I'm missing something important.

Do you need bank account info too for direct deposit?

Yes, if you want direct deposit (which is way faster than waiting for a debit card), have your routing and account numbers ready.

2 weeks isn't too bad. I was worried it might take months based on some horror stories I've heard.

Those horror stories are usually from people with complicated situations like self-employment or disputes with employers. Straightforward layoffs like yours usually process pretty quickly.

Good point! I'll make sure to be clear that it was a layoff due to restructuring, not anything I did wrong.

Exactly. The reason for separation is crucial. 'Laid off due to lack of work' or 'position eliminated' are the phrases you want to use.

Thanks for the encouragement! I'm feeling much more confident about applying now. This thread has been incredibly helpful.

Agreed! When I got laid off I was so stressed about everything but filing the claim was actually pretty straightforward. The hardest part was just making the decision to do it.

I'll definitely keep that in mind. Hopefully I won't need it but good to know there's an option if I get stuck.

I'm curious about this Claimyr thing now too. Might be worth it just for peace of mind.

Awesome! Proud of you for taking that step. You should hear back within a week or two.

You inspired me to apply too! Just finished mine. Fingers crossed for both of us!

Great job! Remember to start doing your job search activities right away even while you're waiting for approval. That way you're ready when your first weekly claim is due.

Congratulations on getting it done! The hardest part is over. Now just be patient and keep looking for work.