What do you need to be eligible for unemployment in Washington state?

Thanks! What counts as the base year exactly? I'm confused about the quarters part.

So if you file in January 2025, your base year would be October 2023 through September 2024. Each quarter is 3 months - Q1 is Jan-Mar, Q2 is Apr-Jun, Q3 is Jul-Sep, Q4 is Oct-Dec.

That seems pretty complicated. Is there a calculator somewhere on the Washington ESD website?

Yes, there's a benefit calculator on the Washington ESD website under the 'File a Claim' section. It's pretty helpful for estimating what you might receive.

How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you?

Yeah, basically they handle the calling and waiting on hold, then connect you when they get through to an agent. Saved me hours of trying to call myself.

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log of them. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or using WorkSourceWA services.

do they actually check the log or is it just if you get audited

They can request your job search log at any time, and if you're selected for an eligibility review they definitely will. It's better to keep detailed records from the start.

What if you get fired for performance issues? Does that count as misconduct?

Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless it's willful or deliberate. Misconduct is more like theft, violence, or repeatedly violating company policies after warnings.

Good to know! What's the cutoff for part-time work affecting benefits?

If you earn more than your weekly benefit amount plus $5, your benefits will be reduced dollar for dollar. So if your weekly benefit is $300 and you earn $200, you'd still get $105 in benefits ($300 - $200 + $5).

Tell me about it! The whole system is a bureaucratic nightmare. Half the time their website doesn't even work properly.

It does seem overwhelming at first, but once you understand the basics it's not too bad. The key is keeping good records and filing your weekly claims on time.

Independent contractor income doesn't count toward regular UI eligibility. You'd need to have traditional W-2 employment that meets the wage and quarter requirements.

That's frustrating. So all my gig work basically doesn't help me qualify at all?

Is that the same as the job search log or something different?

It's separate. WorkSourceWA is the state job search website where you can find job postings and career services. You need to register there AND keep your own job search log.

what about social security? does that count too

Social Security retirement benefits can also reduce your unemployment benefits, but Social Security disability benefits typically don't affect UI eligibility.

I might try that if I can't get through on my own. How quickly were you able to talk to someone?

It was way faster than trying to call myself. Instead of spending hours on hold, I got connected to an agent within a reasonable time.

What if you're looking for work but have some restrictions, like you can't do heavy lifting?

As long as you're able to work in some capacity and actively seeking jobs within your restrictions, that should be fine. The key is being genuinely available for suitable work.

Do you need pay stubs or will they verify with employers directly?

They verify with employers directly, but it's good to have your own records in case there are discrepancies. Sometimes employer wage records aren't complete or accurate.

how long do you have to appeal

You have 30 days from the date of the determination notice to file an appeal. Make sure you don't miss that deadline.

How long does it take to get that letter?

Usually within a week or two of filing your initial claim. You can check the status online through your SecureAccess Washington account.

Even if I'm not sure I qualify yet?

Yes, keep filing weekly claims while your initial claim is being processed. If you're denied, you can stop filing, but if you're approved you'll get paid for those weeks.

Oh that's good to know! So I could potentially get benefits right away if approved?

Yes, as long as you meet all the other requirements and file your weekly claims on time.

Thanks for the recommendation. I'm definitely going to check that out if I need to talk to someone about my specific situation.

What's the difference exactly? I thought they were the same thing.

Laid off usually means loss of work due to lack of work, business closure, or downsizing. Fired typically means terminated for cause. Being laid off is clearly eligible, being fired depends on the reason.

That makes me feel better. I was worried my 8 months of work wouldn't be enough, but I think I should meet the requirements.

Yeah, with 8 months of work you should be fine on the wage requirement. Just make sure you have accurate employment dates and wage information when you file.

Thank you all so much for the detailed explanations! This really helps me understand what I need to do. I feel much more prepared now.