What are the 3 requirements to qualify for unemployment in Washington state?

Thank you! What exactly counts as 'enough wages' in the base period? Is there a specific dollar amount?

For 2025, you need at least $8,712 in total wages during your base period, with at least $2,904 earned in your highest quarter. The base period is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim.

Do I need to start the job search immediately or can I wait a week or two after filing?

You need to start your job search activities immediately. Washington ESD requires you to be actively seeking work from the moment you file your claim. The 3 job contacts per week start with your first week of benefits.

I had the same problem for weeks until I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com). They actually got me through to a Washington ESD agent in like 20 minutes. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting disconnected.

Really? That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

It's definitely worth it when you consider how much time you save. I was spending 3-4 hours a day trying to get through on my own with no luck.

What if I was laid off due to lack of work? That should qualify, right?

Yes, layoffs due to lack of work definitely qualify as 'no fault of your own.' That's one of the most common reasons people become eligible for unemployment benefits.

If you received a denial letter, you have the right to appeal within 30 days. The letter should explain the specific reason for denial. You might want to call Washington ESD to get clarification on why you were denied.

I've been trying to call for 2 weeks! The phone system just hangs up on me after being on hold forever

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - their system handles the waiting and gets you connected to an actual person. Much better than dealing with the busy signals and disconnections.

How do I file the weekly claims? Is it online or do I have to call?

You can file online through the Washington ESD website or by phone. Online is usually faster and available 24/7. You'll report any work you did that week and confirm you're still looking for work.

So even if I'm approved right away, I won't get paid for the first week?

Exactly. You still need to file a claim for that first week, but you won't receive payment for it. It's called a 'waiting week' and it's standard policy.

What if I have a pre-scheduled vacation right after I file? Do I just not file for those weeks?

You still need to file your weekly claim, but you'll report that you weren't available for work during those days. You typically won't receive benefits for weeks when you're not available.

The base period calculation can be tricky. If your most recent wages aren't included in the standard base period, you might be able to use an alternate base period that includes more recent earnings.

I wish someone had explained this to me before I filed. Now I'm trying to figure out if I can reapply with the alternate base period

Is WorkSource registration something I do online or do I have to go to a physical location?

You can register online at WorkSourceWA.com. It's much easier than going to a physical location, and you can access job search resources and track your activities there.

Adjudication can take several weeks, especially if there are questions about your separation from employment or eligibility. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do except wait or try to get more information from Washington ESD.

I've tried calling but can never get through. Might have to try that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier.

I used Claimyr when my claim was in adjudication and they got me connected to someone who could actually explain what was happening. Worth every penny to get real answers instead of just waiting in the dark.

This is really helpful! I think I understand now. Thank you everyone for all the detailed explanations.

Glad we could help! The unemployment system is complicated but once you understand these core requirements, the rest starts to make more sense.

Agreed! The website is not user-friendly at all. Forums like this are honestly more helpful than the official resources sometimes.

Seriously! I learned more from this thread than I did from an hour of reading their website.

Good advice! I'll start a folder right now to keep track of everything.

Yes! I had to appeal a decision and having all my documentation organized made the process so much smoother.