What disqualifies you from receiving unemployment benefits in Washington State?

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

Misconduct has to be willful or deliberate. Isolated incidents of tardiness usually aren't enough unless it's part of a pattern after warnings. Washington ESD looks at the severity and whether you knew the behavior could result in termination.

How do they define 'suitable work'? Can they force you to take any job even if it pays way less than your previous job?

Generally after the first few weeks you have to consider jobs that pay at least 75% of your previous wage. But there are exceptions for certain professions and circumstances.

Wow, they really check everything? What happened when they found out about your freelance work?

They created an overpayment and I had to pay back several weeks of benefits plus penalties. It was a nightmare dealing with Washington ESD to get it resolved.

This is exactly why I used Claimyr when I had issues with my claim. Their service at claimyr.com helped me get through to an actual Washington ESD agent to explain my situation properly. Way better than trying to call yourself and getting hung up on constantly.

What about if you're taking care of a sick family member? Does that count as being unavailable?

It depends on the circumstances. Washington ESD looks at whether it's temporary and if you're still able to accept work. You might qualify for paid family leave instead of unemployment in some cases.

Even with marijuana being legal in Washington? That seems unfair.

Legal doesn't mean employers have to allow it. If your job had a drug policy and you violated it, that can still be misconduct for unemployment purposes.

So if my weekly benefit is $300 and I earn $306 in a week, I get nothing? That seems harsh.

Exactly. You'd get $0 for that week. But if you earned $250, you'd still get a partial payment. It's designed to encourage people to take any work available.

What documents do they require to prove work authorization?

Usually your Social Security card and driver's license, or a US passport. If you're not a citizen, you'll need to show your work authorization documents from USCIS.

How long does a fraud conviction affect your eligibility?

Depends on the severity. First offense might be a few months to a year. Repeat offenses or large amounts can be permanent disqualifications in some cases.

I got selected for one of those programs. What happens if you just don't show up?

They'll disqualify you for not participating. You have to have a really good reason and contact them ahead of time if you can't make it.

When I had problems with my WorkSource requirement, I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Watched their demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ and it actually worked to get me connected to an agent who could reschedule my appointment.

What's the minimum you need to have earned?

It changes yearly but for 2025 you need at least $5000 in your base period with at least $1000 in two different quarters. Plus your high quarter earnings have to be at least 1.5 times your lowest quarter.

What if the absences were due to a medical condition?

Medical absences are usually protected if you followed proper procedures and had documentation. But if you didn't communicate with your employer or follow company policy, it could still be an issue.

What about taking classes at night or online while receiving benefits?

Generally ok as long as it doesn't interfere with your ability to search for and accept work. Washington ESD evaluates each situation individually.

My pension is only $200/month, would that really affect my unemployment?

It might reduce your weekly benefit amount. Washington ESD has specific formulas for how they calculate pension offsets.

What if you make an honest mistake on your weekly claim?

Honest mistakes can usually be corrected if you report them quickly. It's the intentional false statements that get you in real trouble.

I work for a school district during the school year. Can I collect benefits during summer break?

Usually no, if you have reasonable assurance of returning to work in the fall. There are specific rules for educational employees that can be complex.

Was it worth the cost? I've been thinking about trying it myself.

Definitely worth it for me. Saved me probably months of stress and uncertainty. Check out claimyr.com if you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD.

What if the company locks you out during contract negotiations?

Lockouts are treated differently than strikes. You might be eligible in that situation, but it depends on the specific circumstances of the labor dispute.

This has been super helpful everyone. Sounds like the main thing is just to be honest and follow all the rules. Hopefully my situation is straightforward since I was laid off due to company downsizing.

Layoffs due to company downsizing are usually pretty straightforward as long as it wasn't performance-related. You should be fine if you meet the other requirements!