What are the requirements for unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

Thanks! What counts as 'actively searching for work'? Do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs per week?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a record of them. This can include applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc.

I was definitely laid off due to budget cuts, so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Even if you quit, there are some exceptions like if you had good cause related to work. But layoffs are usually straightforward.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com. They actually help you get through to Washington ESD agents by phone. I watched their demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ and decided to try it. Got connected within 20 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own.

Really? That sounds too good to be true. How does it work exactly?

They basically handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Super easy to use and way less frustrating than calling yourself.

What's a waiting week?

It used to be that you had to wait one week after filing before you could receive your first payment. Most states got rid of this during COVID and Washington kept it that way for regular unemployment claims.

That sounds complicated. Is there a way to check if I meet these requirements before I apply?

Yes, you can log into your SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account and view your wage history to calculate it, or Washington ESD will determine this when you file your initial claim.

I always get confused by the quarter thing. Why can't they just look at the last year of work?

What's WorkSource Washington? Is that different from Washington ESD?

WorkSource is Washington's job search and career services system. It's connected to your unemployment claim requirements - you'll use it to track your job search activities.

How much does something like that cost though? I'm already stressed about money.

It's worth checking their site for current info, but for me it was worth it to actually get through and resolve my claim issues instead of being stuck in limbo.

Good to know! How do I file weekly claims?

You do it online through your Washington ESD account. They'll walk you through it when you set up your initial claim.

You don't have to apply to jobs outside your field initially. The job search activities can include networking, researching employers, updating your resume, etc. As time goes on, you may need to expand your search though.

ok that makes me feel better. I was worried I'd have to apply to work at McDonald's or something right away lol

As long as you earned enough wages during your base period, part-time work can still qualify you for unemployment benefits. Your benefit amount will be based on your actual earnings, not whether you worked full-time or part-time.

That's a relief. I wasn't sure if there was a minimum hours requirement or something.

How long do you have to appeal if you get denied?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait until the last minute though.

What if you're working part-time though? Can you still get partial benefits?

Yes, Washington allows partial benefits if you're working reduced hours, but your unemployment payment will be reduced based on how much you earn.

It's definitely worth it if you qualify! The benefits can help you stay afloat while you're looking for new work. Don't let the complexity discourage you from applying.

I felt the same way but once I actually filed it wasn't as bad as I thought. The Washington ESD website walks you through most of it step by step.

They can audit your job search records, so you should keep documentation of everything you do. Don't lie about your activities because they might ask for proof.

Good to know. I'll make sure to keep good records then.

My employer said the layoffs were permanent, so I don't think I'm on standby status.

Then you should be good with the regular unemployment requirements. Standby is more for seasonal workers or temporary layoffs.

Was it expensive? I'm hesitant to pay for something when I'm already out of work.

For me it was worth every penny to actually get my claim resolved. Check out their website at claimyr.com to see what works for your situation.

I'm healthy and able to work, so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Even things like not having childcare can sometimes affect the 'available for work' requirement, so it's good to think through any potential barriers.

Thanks everyone! This has been really helpful. I think I'm going to go ahead and file my claim this week.

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims even while your initial claim is being processed.

I'll definitely keep that in mind if I need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. Hopefully my claim goes through smoothly though!

Fingers crossed for you! Most claims do go through without major issues, but it's good to know about resources like that just in case.