What does unemployment benefits mean in Washington ESD system?

Oh wow I never realized I was paying into this! That makes me feel better about applying. How do I know if I qualify?

You need to have worked enough hours in the past year and lost your job through no fault of your own (like layoffs, not getting fired for misconduct). Washington ESD has specific requirements but most people who worked regular jobs qualify.

That percentage sounds low but it actually works out to a decent amount if you were making good money. I was getting around $800/week when I was unemployed last year.

Weekly claims? So I have to do something every week to keep getting money?

Yes, you file a weekly claim every week certifying that you're still unemployed and actively looking for work. It's required to maintain your benefits.

Is that legit? I'm worried about scams since I'm already stressed about money.

Totally legitimate! It's not a scam, it's just a service that helps you get through Washington ESD's phone system. I was skeptical too but it worked and talking to an actual ESD agent made everything so much clearer.

I've heard of Claimyr too, friend used it when her claim got stuck in adjudication. Said it was worth it just to get actual answers instead of guessing.

26 weeks seems like a long time but also not very long if you can't find a job quickly. What happens after that?

after regular benefits run out you might qualify for extended benefits if unemployment is high enough in the state but that's not guaranteed. that's why they want you actively job searching the whole time

18 months?! That's a lot of information to dig up. Do I need pay stubs or tax forms?

Your W-2s are super helpful, and any pay stubs you have. But even if you don't have everything perfect, you can still file - just be as accurate as possible with dates and wages.

Washington ESD can verify most employment information electronically now, so don't stress too much if you're missing some details. Better to file and correct later than to delay.

That's actually a really good way to think about it! Makes me feel less weird about applying.

Exactly! And you SHOULD apply if you qualify. You literally paid for this coverage through your paycheck deductions.

What kind of job search activities? Like applying to jobs or networking too?

applying for jobs, going to job fairs, networking events, even things like updating your resume or taking online courses. they have a whole list of approved activities

You need to complete at least 3 job search activities per week in Washington. WorkSourceWA is the state's job search platform that integrates with your unemployment claim.

How long did it take you to get your first payment after applying?

About 3 weeks for me, but that was during a normal time. I've heard it can take longer if there are issues with your claim or if they need to verify employment.

That sounds useful! Is it on the main ESD website?

Yes, it's under the 'Unemployment Benefits' section. Just search for 'benefit calculator' on their site.

So even if I think I might get hired somewhere next week, I should still apply now?

Absolutely! It takes time to process and you never know if that job will actually come through. Better to have benefits available than to be stuck waiting weeks for processing.

This is solid advice. I've seen too many people wait and then regret it when job prospects fell through.

You can work part-time while on unemployment in Washington, but you need to report all earnings on your weekly claim. They'll reduce your benefit amount based on how much you earn, but you might still get partial benefits.

Do they reduce it dollar for dollar or is there some kind of formula?

There's a formula - you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount without any reduction, then they start reducing benefits. It's designed to incentive part-time work while job searching.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It just means they're reviewing your claim for some reason - could be to verify employment, check if you quit vs were laid off, or other eligibility questions. Usually resolves in a few weeks but can delay payments.

Adjudication is super common and usually nothing to worry about. Just means they need more information to approve your claim.

You need to be authorized to work in the US, but citizenship isn't required. Permanent residents and people with work authorization can qualify if they meet other eligibility requirements.

Thanks! I have a green card so should be good.

That makes sense. I definitely want to find work as soon as possible, but it's good to know there's help available while I'm looking.

Exactly the right attitude! Use the time productively for job searching and maybe skills development too.

Really? What kind of training programs?

things like trade certifications, community college courses, online training programs. they can sometimes extend your benefits if youre in approved training too

So the initial claim and weekly claims are different things?

Right - initial claim establishes your benefit amount and eligibility. Weekly claims are what you file every week to actually receive payments.

This thread has been so helpful! I feel much more confident about applying now. Thank you everyone!

Good luck with your application! Don't hesitate to reach out here if you run into any issues.

And remember, if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD directly, Claimyr is there to help you get through their phone system. Made all the difference for me!