What is the longest you can be on unemployment in Washington state?

Thanks! So 26 weeks is about 6 months - that's helpful to know for budgeting purposes.

Keep in mind that's only if you qualify for the maximum. Washington ESD calculates your benefit duration based on your earnings in your base year.

That's correct - the duration is calculated based on your base year earnings. You need sufficient earnings in at least two quarters of your base year to get the full 26 weeks.

yeah that makes sense now. wish someone had explained that better when i first applied

Good point about the job search requirements. Do you know how many job contacts I'll need to make each week?

Currently it's 3 job search activities per week, which can include applications, interviews, job fairs, or networking events. Keep detailed records in your job search log.

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for weeks about my claim status.

It basically handles the calling process for you so you don't have to sit on hold for hours. They call back when they get an agent on the line.

That's concerning. What industry are you in? I'm in tech so I'm hoping there are still opportunities.

I'm in marketing. Tech might be better but even there I'm seeing friends struggle to find roles.

The key is to start networking now before you even get laid off. Don't wait until you're unemployed.

Oh wow, I didn't know that. So I should file immediately after my last day of work?

Exactly. File the week after your last day of work. Your benefit year runs for 52 weeks from your initial claim date, but you can only collect up to 26 weeks of benefits during that year.

The benefit estimator on the Washington ESD website can give you a rough idea, but it's not always accurate. Your actual duration depends on your specific earnings history.

I had the same issue trying to get through to them. That Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually worked for me too when I needed to talk to someone about my benefit calculation.

Good advice about saving. I'm hoping to not need the full 26 weeks but better to be prepared.

Yeah, definitely don't spend it all. Treat unemployment like emergency income, not regular income.

Generally you can't collect if you quit voluntarily, unless you had good cause like unsafe working conditions or harassment. Layoffs, terminations without cause, and reduced hours usually qualify.

Ok that makes sense. I was thinking about quitting before the layoffs but sounds like I should wait.

That's a good point about timing. Since my layoff is in February, I'd be looking through the spring and summer which might be better for hiring.

Spring is usually better for hiring, but don't assume it'll be easy. Start preparing your resume and LinkedIn now.

This is so true! I had 6 rounds of interviews for one position and they still didn't hire me. The process was 3 months long.

Ugh, that sounds exhausting. I really hope I can find something quickly.

Good reminder! I'll set up a calendar reminder to file every Sunday.

Yes, and make sure you report any work or income during your weekly claims. Even small amounts can affect your benefits.

Extensions only happen during major economic crises and require federal legislation. Don't count on it - plan for the standard 26 weeks.

You're right, better to plan conservatively. Just wishful thinking I guess.

How much does it cost? I'm trying to save money obviously.

I don't remember the exact cost but it was worth it to actually get answers instead of wasting days trying to get through on my own.

Thanks for that clarification. I'll make sure to read everything carefully when I file.

And if you disagree with their determination, you can appeal it. But do it quickly - there are deadlines.

I can't really apply while I'm still employed, but I can definitely start networking and updating my resume.

Yeah, do everything you can to prepare. Having a head start makes a huge difference.