What can you get unemployment for in Washington ESD - eligibility questions

That makes sense. So being laid off due to slow business should qualify me then? Do I need any special documentation from my employer?

Yes, layoffs due to lack of work definitely qualify. You'll need your employer info for the application but they don't need to provide special forms - Washington ESD will contact them directly.

What counts as 'good cause' for quitting? I've been thinking about leaving my job because my boss is making the workplace really hostile.

Hostile work environment can qualify if you can document it. Other good cause reasons include unsafe conditions, significant pay cuts, major schedule changes you can't accommodate, or harassment that the employer won't address.

I had the same problem until I found claimyr.com - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents without waiting on hold forever. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me hours of frustration.

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

It basically handles the calling and waiting for you, then connects you when an agent picks up. I was skeptical too but it actually worked - got through to discuss my adjudication issue in like 20 minutes instead of calling all day.

What's the base period? I've only been working for about 8 months, is that enough?

Base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. 8 months should be enough if you worked regularly, but the exact wage requirements depend on how much you earned.

Being fired for attendance issues usually counts as misconduct which would disqualify you, but it depends on the specific circumstances. If you had a legitimate reason for the absences (like medical issues) it might be different.

well great, so I'm probably screwed then. I was late because I don't have reliable transportation but I guess that doesn't matter

Actually transportation issues might be considered if you can show you made good faith efforts to solve the problem. You should still apply - let Washington ESD make the determination rather than assuming you don't qualify.

Yes, you can get partial unemployment if you're working reduced hours. Washington has a formula where they reduce your weekly benefit based on how much you earn, but you can still qualify for something if your hours were cut significantly.

That's good to know. My hours got cut from 40 to 15 per week so I might qualify for partial benefits then.

How long did it take to get approved? I'm worried about the adjudication process I keep hearing about.

Mine took about 3 weeks total, no adjudication needed since it was a clear layoff situation. If there are questions about your separation they might need to investigate, which takes longer.

seriously?? I might have to try that too, I've been calling for days with no luck

Yeah I was surprised it worked so well. Definitely worth it if you need to actually talk to someone there instead of just guessing about your eligibility.

What are the work search requirements? Do I have to apply for a certain number of jobs each week?

Currently it's 3 job search activities per week. Can include applications, interviews, networking events, job fairs, etc. You have to keep a log and be ready to show it if they ask.

What if your employer says they'll call you back but it's been months? How long do you wait on standby?

There's no set time limit but if it's been several months with no recall date, you should probably start doing regular job searches and consider it a permanent layoff.

Good point. Washington has some of the more generous 'good cause' provisions compared to other states. Even things like needing to care for a family member can sometimes qualify you if you have to quit.

This is really helpful everyone. Sounds like I should definitely apply since my situation was a clear layoff. Thanks for all the info!

maybe I should apply too then, even with my attendance issues. Can't hurt to try I guess

Exactly! Let them make the decision rather than disqualifying yourself. Plus if you get denied you can always appeal if you think they got it wrong.

When do you file the weekly claims? Is it the same day each week?

You file for the week ending on Saturday, and you can file starting Sunday morning. Most people do it Sunday or Monday to make sure they don't forget.

What kind of documentation did you need? I'm dealing with harassment at work and considering quitting.

I had photos of safety violations, incident reports I filed, and emails to my supervisor about the problems. For harassment you'd want similar documentation - emails, witness statements, complaints to HR, etc.