What does unemployment mean exactly? Washington ESD basics needed

So if I quit my job I wouldn't qualify? What about if I got laid off?

Layoffs usually qualify, but quitting makes it much harder unless you had good cause like harassment or unsafe conditions.

How much do they actually pay out? Is it worth the hassle of applying?

It's typically around 60-70% of your previous wages up to a maximum amount. Better than nothing when you're between jobs.

OMG yes! I've been trying to call for weeks about my claim being stuck in adjudication and can never get through.

I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

What's the 'able and available' part mean exactly? Does that have special requirements?

Able and available means you're physically capable of working and actively seeking employment. You have to prove you're looking for jobs each week.

Yeah there are job search requirements, weekly claims you have to file, and they investigate if you quit or got fired to make sure you qualify.

Weekly claims? Nobody told me about that when I applied!

Exactly! It's unemployment insurance, not a handout. You earn the right to benefits by working and paying into the system.

Yes, Washington has partial unemployment benefits if your hours got reduced. You might qualify for some benefits to make up the difference in pay.

Really? How do I find out more about that? My hours got cut from 40 to 15 per week.

What are the work history requirements? Do you need to work a full year before qualifying?

You need enough earnings in your base period - usually the first 4 of the last 5 quarters before you file. Washington ESD calculates it automatically when you apply.

How long can you collect benefits? Is there a limit?

Usually up to 26 weeks in Washington, though it can be extended during high unemployment periods.

So true! I've been trying to get my adjudication issue resolved for over a month.

I had the same problem with adjudication taking forever. Someone mentioned Claimyr earlier - I actually used them and got through to an agent the same day. Saved me weeks of calling.

Wait, so employers pay for this, not employees? I thought it came out of my paycheck.

Employers pay unemployment taxes to fund the system. Some states have small employee contributions but Washington is employer-funded.

What happens if you get denied? Can you appeal or are you just out of luck?

You can definitely appeal a denial. Washington ESD has an appeals process if you disagree with their decision.

How many job searches do you have to do each week? Is there a minimum number?

Usually 3 job search activities per week, but it can vary based on your situation and the local job market.

That's actually a really good analogy! Makes it easier to understand why there are so many rules and requirements.

Overpayments? What do you mean by that?

If Washington ESD decides you weren't eligible for some of the benefits you received, they can make you pay it back. It's scary.

So true! And if you mess up any of the requirements they can stop your benefits entirely.

Exactly why it's important to understand what you're getting into before you apply.

Where do I find this handbook? Is it on their website?

Yes, it's on the Washington ESD website under resources. Covers eligibility, requirements, and the whole process step by step.

That's a perfect summary! It's there to help but you have to follow the rules to keep getting benefits.

Now I need to figure out if I actually qualify based on how I lost my last job...

They can audit you? What happens during an audit?

They review your job search activities and verify you met all requirements. If you can't prove you followed the rules, you might owe money back.

How does Claimyr work exactly? Do they just help you get through on the phone?

Yeah, they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.