What are the qualifications to apply for unemployment in Washington State?

Thanks! So if I've only been working 8 months, would that be enough time to meet the base period requirement?

It depends on when you started and when you file. The base period is specific quarters, not just any 12-month period. You'd need to check which quarters your work falls into.

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

No, but it should generally match your skills and experience level. The definition can get pretty specific though - you might want to look at the Washington ESD website for the full details.

Interesting, I've never heard of that. How does it work exactly?

Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent becomes available. Saved me hours of being on hold.

ugh the job search thing is so annoying, like we're not already stressed enough about being unemployed

I get that it's frustrating, but it's required by law. The good news is there are lots of different activities that count toward your requirement.

Can you do online applications or does it have to be in person?

Online applications definitely count! In fact, most job search activities can be done online these days.

If you quit voluntarily, you generally won't qualify unless you had 'good cause' - things like unsafe working conditions, harassment, or significant changes to your job. Getting fired for misconduct also disqualifies you.

What about if your hours got cut way back? Like from full-time to just a few hours a week?

You might qualify for partial unemployment benefits if your hours were reduced significantly. There are specific calculations for that.

Good to know! How long does the whole application process usually take?

The initial application is pretty quick online, maybe 30-45 minutes. But then it can take 2-4 weeks to get your first payment depending on if there are any issues.

Contractor income doesn't count toward your base period wages for regular unemployment. You need W-2 wages from covered employment.

Ah okay, that makes sense. So only the regular employee wages would count.

I agree it can be overwhelming at first. The Washington ESD website has a lot of information but it's not always organized in the most user-friendly way.

That's why I ended up using Claimyr when I had questions - sometimes you just need to talk to a real person who can explain things clearly.

What if you can work but have some limitations? Like you can't lift heavy things due to a back injury?

That could still qualify as 'able to work' as long as there are jobs available that fit your restrictions. It's case-by-case.

Criminal background doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits. The main disqualifiers are related to how you became unemployed and your work history/earnings.

Yeah unemployment isn't like some other programs where they check your background. It's really just about work history and circumstances of separation.

Being in school can affect your 'available for work' status. If you're in school full-time, you might not be considered available for full-time work. But there are some exceptions and programs that allow it.

I'm just taking evening classes, so I should be fine then?

Probably, as long as the classes don't interfere with your ability to work during normal business hours. You'd need to be able to accept a job if one was offered.

They have access to wage records from employers who pay into the unemployment system. They can also contact employers directly if there are questions about your separation.

Yeah they definitely check with employers especially if there's any dispute about why you left the job.

You don't have to be a citizen, but you do need to be authorized to work in the US. Legal residents and people with work authorization can qualify.

Thanks, that's what I thought but wanted to make sure.

The base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be January-December 2023. Washington ESD has the exact wage information from employer reports.

Wait, so it's not the most recent wages? That seems weird.

Right, there's a lag because employers need time to report wages. But there's also an 'alternate base period' using more recent wages if you don't qualify under the regular base period.

That's good to know! How long did the whole process take?

The initial denial was quick, maybe 2 weeks. Then the reapplication took another 3-4 weeks. It was worth the wait though.

Yeah I think it depends on how the severance is structured. Some counts as wages and some doesn't.

Exactly, it's pretty complicated. Definitely something to ask about when you file.

How much does something like that cost?

I don't remember the exact cost but it was worth it to not spend hours on hold. Way less stressful than trying to call myself.

Thanks everyone! This has been really helpful. I feel much more confident about the process now.

Good luck with everything! The unemployment system isn't perfect but it's there to help when you need it.

And keep copies of everything! You never know when you might need to reference something later.

Definitely this. I had to provide additional documentation later and was glad I kept good records.

100% agree. Trying to hide something or being dishonest will just make things worse in the long run.

And if you're not sure how to answer something, that's when it's worth calling to ask for clarification.