What are the eligibility requirements for unemployment insurance in Washington state?

Thanks! How do I know what my base period earnings were? Is that something I can check before applying?

You can estimate it from your pay stubs or W-2s. Washington ESD will verify your wages with employers during the application process.

I don't have any restrictions like that. Do they actually check if you're really available or is it just something you certify?

They can and do check, especially if there are questions about your claim. Better to be honest upfront than deal with overpayment issues later.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying online or do you need to do more?

Online applications count, but so do networking events, career fairs, informational interviews, and contacting employers directly. Keep records of everything with dates and details.

The WorkSourceWA website has a good job search log feature that makes tracking easier.

Is that legitimate? I've never heard of paying someone to help you call a government office.

Yeah it's legit, they don't handle your claim or anything like that. Just helps you get connected to Washington ESD phone agents when the lines are jammed. I was skeptical too but it actually worked.

No, multiple jobs is fine. Washington ESD combines all your W-2 wages from all employers during your base period to determine if you meet the earnings requirement.

ok good. one of those jobs was only for like 6 weeks but i guess every bit helps

I'm a citizen and don't have any pensions so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

It's only been a week since I was laid off. How long do I have to file?

Technically you can file up to a year later but you'll lose benefits for any weeks you delay. File this week if possible.

No, having savings doesn't disqualify you from unemployment benefits. The eligibility is based on your work history and how you became unemployed, not your current financial situation.

That's a relief. I was afraid to even apply because of that.

Good to know. I was thinking about doing some delivery work if I can't find a regular job quickly.

You can still do it, just report everything honestly. They reduce your weekly benefit but don't usually eliminate it completely unless you earn more than your weekly benefit amount plus $5.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. The Washington ESD phone system is a nightmare but that service actually got me through to a human in like 10 minutes.

Might have to try that. This is ridiculous that you have to pay someone just to talk to the government office that's supposed to help you.

I used something similar when I had adjudication issues last year. Worth it if you actually need to speak to someone and the regular phone system isn't working.

For the first few weeks you can be selective about suitable work, but as time goes on Washington ESD expects you to expand your search to include jobs that pay at least 70% of your previous wage. Eventually you may need to take any work you're capable of doing.

Makes sense. I'd rather find work quickly anyway than drag this out.

How long does the appeal process take?

Mine took about 6 weeks but that was during busy season. Keep filing your weekly claims even while the appeal is pending.

I have most of that info. What's adjudication exactly?

It's when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim before they can approve benefits. Can add weeks to the process.

I know it's a pain but they audit job search activities regularly. It's better to over-document than to get caught without proper records and have your benefits stopped.

ugh fine. guess i'll start keeping better track of everything

Volunteer work doesn't usually affect eligibility as long as you're not receiving any compensation and it doesn't interfere with your availability for paid work.

Good to know, thanks. It's actually helping me stay busy and network so I'll keep doing it.

My situation was pretty straightforward - just a layoff due to company downsizing. Hopefully that makes things easier.

That should be fine. Layoffs are usually processed without issues as long as you meet the wage and work requirements.

If you worked 10 months and were laid off, you probably qualify assuming you earned enough wages. The worst they can do is say no, and then you can appeal if needed.

true. might as well try. thanks for the encouragement

Good point. I'll probably have them withhold taxes to avoid a big bill later.

Smart choice. The withholding is 10% federal but you might owe state taxes too depending on your total income for the year.

Good luck with your claim! Feel free to ask if you run into any issues during the application process.

And remember, if you need to talk to Washington ESD directly about anything, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier is still available. Much easier than trying to get through on your own.