What are the requirements to receive unemployment in Washington state?

Thanks! What counts as 'enough wages' during the base period? Is there a specific dollar amount?

For 2025, you need at least $5,400 in total base period wages OR at least $3,600 in your highest quarter plus 1.5 times that amount in the entire base period. So if you made $3,600 in your best quarter, you'd need at least $9,000 total.

Wait, is it 3 contacts per week for everyone? I thought it depended on your situation.

It's 3 for most people, but some exemptions exist like if you're in training or have a definite recall date within 12 weeks. Check your specific requirements in your eServices account.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Total game changer for getting through to them.

That sounds too good to be true. How does it actually work? Do they charge a lot?

It's legit - they basically do the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Way better than spending hours on hold myself. The service handles all the frustrating parts of trying to reach Washington ESD.

What if you have childcare issues? Does that count as not being available?

If childcare problems prevent you from accepting suitable work, it could affect your eligibility. You need to show you're making reasonable efforts to secure childcare or only seeking jobs that work with your availability.

This is so complicated. I wish there was a simple checklist somewhere.

Wait, really? So if I file this week I won't get paid for this week at all?

Correct, your first compensable week is actually your second week of filing. It's like a one-week deductible. Make sure you budget for that gap.

How long do you have to register with WorkSource after filing your initial claim?

I believe it's within the first few weeks, but don't quote me on the exact timeframe. Better to do it right away when you file your claim to avoid any issues.

I think it's actually required before you can receive your first payment, so definitely don't wait on this one.

What exactly counts as misconduct? Is being late a few times enough to disqualify you?

Misconduct has to be willful or deliberate violation of workplace rules. Occasional tardiness probably wouldn't qualify as misconduct, but repeated violations after warnings might. It's very case-specific.

That seems like such an old timeframe. What if you just started working recently?

If you don't qualify with the standard base period, they can use an alternate base period that includes more recent wages. But you have to specifically request this when you file.

I had to use the alternate base period and it saved my claim. Definitely worth knowing about if you're a recent workforce entrant.

Yes, you can get partial benefits if your hours are reduced. You report your earnings each week and they calculate a reduced benefit amount. But there are limits on how much you can earn and still get benefits.

Good to know! I wasn't sure if part-time work would automatically disqualify me.

You have to seek 'suitable work' which considers your training, experience, and local job market. Early in your claim you can be more selective, but as time goes on the definition of suitable work expands.

I've been on unemployment for 8 weeks and Washington ESD told me I need to expand my search beyond my preferred field. The definition of suitable definitely changes over time.

How do they verify job search activities? Do they actually call the employers you list?

They can and do audit job search logs randomly. They might contact employers you claimed to apply with or ask for detailed documentation. Always keep records of your actual applications.

What kind of documents do they typically ask for during ID verification?

Driver's license, Social Security card, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. Sometimes they want multiple forms. The ID.me verification system they use can be pretty picky about photo quality.

Did Claimyr actually help you get answers about eligibility requirements? I'm skeptical about using third-party services.

Yeah, they got me connected to a Washington ESD agent who went through my work history and confirmed I meet the wage requirements. Worth it just to avoid the phone tree nightmare.

Where exactly is this eligibility tool on their website? I've been looking for something like that.

It should be on the main Washington ESD unemployment page, but their website navigation isn't great. Try searching for 'eligibility calculator' or 'benefit estimator' on their site.