What makes you qualify for unemployment in Washington ESD?

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

Base period is the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be January 2024 through December 2024. You need to have earned at least $1,000 in your base period.

That's encouraging! How long did it take for them to make a decision on your claim?

It took about 3 weeks because they had to do an adjudication to determine if I had good cause for leaving. Be prepared to provide documentation about your hour reduction.

How much does that cost? Seems sketchy to pay someone to make a phone call.

It's worth it when you consider how much time you save not sitting on hold for hours. The video explains everything about how it works.

I might check that out if I can't get through the normal way. Thanks for the tip!

Do I have to register with WorkSourceWA before I file my claim or can I do it after?

You can register after filing but you must do it within a reasonable time frame. Don't delay because your weekly claims might get held up if you're not registered.

It depends on the reason. If you were fired for misconduct connected to your work, you'll be disqualified. But if you were laid off due to lack of work or fired for reasons beyond your control, you should still qualify.

ok good because i got fired for being late too many times but it was because my car kept breaking down

That might still be considered misconduct unfortunately. Transportation issues are generally considered your responsibility. You should still apply though - let Washington ESD make the determination.

That sounds complicated. Is there a calculator somewhere to figure out if I meet the monetary requirements?

Yes, Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website. You'll need your wage information from your employers to use it accurately.

So even if I qualify, I won't get any money for the first week I file?

Exactly. It's called a waiting week and everyone has to serve it. You'll file the weekly claim but won't receive payment for that week.

Able and available means you're physically and mentally capable of working and you're available for suitable work during normal business hours. Having childcare limitations doesn't automatically disqualify you, but it might limit the types of jobs you can accept.

That makes sense. Thanks for clarifying!

How detailed do the records need to be? Do I need to save emails and stuff?

Yes, keep everything - job postings, application confirmations, employer contact info, dates, etc. If they audit you and you can't provide documentation, you could face an overpayment.

This is so important! I got audited and thankfully had kept good records. Some people lose their benefits because they can't prove their job search activities.

What if I pick up a few hours at my old job while looking for something full-time? Do I report that too?

Yes, report ALL work and earnings. Your weekly benefit might be reduced but it's better than facing fraud allegations later.

Good point. I have some retail experience too so I should probably apply to those jobs as well.

Exactly! The more you can show you're making a genuine effort to find work, the better.

Yes, you'll need to verify your identity through ID.me when you file your claim. Have your driver's license, Social Security card, and other documents ready. The process can take some time.

Thanks! I'll make sure to have all my documents together before I start the application.

No, you don't have to be a citizen, but you do need to be authorized to work in the US. Legal permanent residents and people with valid work authorization can qualify.

Good to know, thanks!

That's really helpful! I'm glad you were able to get that clarified. Dealing with harassment at work is already bad enough without worrying about losing unemployment benefits.

I used Claimyr too after reading about it here. Worth every penny when you're stressed about your claim status and can't get through on your own.

I worked at a regular restaurant so I don't think that applies to me, but good to know for others!

I agree the website could be more user-friendly. That's why it's often helpful to talk to an agent if you can get through to one.

Yeah, the government websites are always terrible. At least we have forums like this to help each other out.

Thank you! I do have my old schedules showing the reduction in hours. I feel more confident about applying now after reading everyone's responses.

You're welcome! Good luck with your claim. The process can be stressful but it sounds like you have a strong case.

That's great advice. I was hesitant to file because I thought it might hurt my chances of getting hired somewhere, but I need the income while I'm job searching.

Exactly! There's no shame in using a safety net that you've paid into through your payroll taxes. That's what it's there for.