What makes someone eligible for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD?

Ok that helps! What exactly counts as the 'base period' though? I started working in March 2024 and got laid off in December 2024.

Your base period would be July 2023 through June 2024 - so if you didn't work during that time, you might not have enough qualifying wages. However, Washington ESD can use an alternate base period if you don't qualify with the standard one.

What if you're taking care of a sick family member? Does that affect your availability?

It could - you need to be available for work during normal business hours. If caregiving responsibilities would prevent you from accepting work, that might be an issue with your claim.

Wait really? How does that work exactly? Is it legit?

Yeah it's totally legit - they basically handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours or getting hung up on.

That actually sounds really helpful! I was dreading having to call them with questions.

Ugh the job search log is such a pain. Do they actually check all those entries?

They can and do audit them, especially if there's any question about your claim. Better to be thorough than sorry.

Right - you need to have earned wages equal to at least 680 times the minimum wage during your base period. For 2024, that works out to around $11,628 total.

Wow that's more than I thought. Good thing to know before applying.

Generally that's true, but there are exceptions for 'good cause' reasons like unsafe working conditions, harassment, or significant changes to your job duties or pay.

I quit due to my boss being verbally abusive and still got approved, but I had to provide documentation and go through an appeal process.

I only worked in Washington so that shouldn't apply to me, but good to know for others!

That's exactly the kind of situation where Claimyr helped me - I was able to actually talk to someone about my adjudication status instead of just waiting in limbo.

I might have to try that. This waiting is killing me financially.

What about if you're getting a pension from a previous job?

Pensions can affect your benefit amount but usually don't make you completely ineligible. It depends on the type and amount.

What counts as misconduct exactly?

Things like willful violation of company policy, criminal acts, or deliberate disregard of your employer's interests. Just poor performance or personality conflicts usually don't count.

Thanks! That makes me feel more confident about applying. I was working about 35 hours a week so hopefully that's enough.

35 hours a week for 8 months should definitely put you over the wage requirements. Go ahead and apply!

Good to know about the waiting period. How do you file the weekly claims?

You can do it online through your Washington ESD account or by phone. The online system is usually easier once you get used to it.

I was in college before the retail job so this would be my only qualifying employment. But at least now I understand how it all works!

I tried that tool and it was helpful but still had questions afterward. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person.

Exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - the online tools are okay but nothing beats talking to an actual Washington ESD agent who can look at your specific situation.

Good point! I'll apply this weekend. Thanks everyone for all the helpful information!

Good luck with your claim! The process isn't as scary as it seems once you get started.