What qualifies you for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

What's the base period? Is that just the last year or something different?

The base period is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in January 2025, it would usually be January 2024 through December 2024.

Thanks! So my base year would be like January 2024 through December 2024? I started working in May 2024 so that should work.

Exactly. And since you were laid off due to budget cuts, that's considered 'through no fault of your own' which meets the separation requirement.

Thanks! What exactly is a base period? I'm confused about the quarters thing.

The base period is the time frame Washington ESD uses to determine if you earned enough wages to qualify. It's typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed your claim.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying to jobs?

Applications count, but also networking events, career fairs, informational interviews, even some training activities. Check the WorkSource website for the full list.

Thank you! How do they calculate the base period? I'm worried my part-time work history might not be enough.

Your base period is typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. Washington ESD looks at your total earnings during that time to determine eligibility and benefit amount.

Thanks! What counts as the base period exactly? I started working in March last year.

Your base period would be the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file now, it would include Q2, Q3, Q4 of 2024 and Q1 of 2025.

For 2025, you need to have earned at least $7,000 in your base period with at least $4,500 in your highest earning quarter. These amounts get adjusted each year.

oh wow i was way off on those numbers lol thanks for the correction

680 hours sounds like a lot. I was only working part-time for most of that time.

Part-time can still work! 680 hours is roughly 17 weeks of full-time work, but if you worked part-time consistently it could still add up.

That's a relief. I was worried because I had quit a job before this one to take the retail position.

That previous quit shouldn't matter as long as you worked enough at your recent job. Washington ESD looks at your most recent separation from work.

Actually, that's not entirely true. If you didn't work enough hours after quitting the previous job, they might still consider that separation. But in most cases you're probably okay.

That's reassuring! Did you have any issues during the application process?

nope pretty straightforward, just took about a week to get approved

How long does adjudication usually take? I'm worried about bills piling up while they investigate.

Adjudication can take weeks or even months depending on the complexity. If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD to check on your claim status, I found Claimyr really helpful. It's a service that helps you get through to an actual agent - saved me hours of calling. Check out claimyr.com, they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

How much does that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

It's worth it when you need to get questions answered quickly. Way better than calling 200 times and getting hung up on.

I used Claimyr too when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Saved me weeks of trying to get through myself.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service 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. Finally got my questions answered after trying for months on my own.

Interesting, I'll check that out. Did it actually work for you?

Yeah, got connected within a few hours instead of wasting days trying to call myself. The agent was able to explain my exact situation and what I needed to do.

What if someone worked under the table for some of their jobs? Does that count?

No, unreported wages don't count toward your base period. Only jobs where taxes were withheld and reported to Washington ESD will show up in their system.

I haven't tried calling yet, just looking at their website. Is it really that hard to get through?

The website is actually pretty good for filing your initial claim. But if you need to talk to someone about your eligibility or have questions, yeah, the phones are brutal.

What's this Claimyr thing? Sounds sketchy to me. Why would you pay someone to make a phone call?

I was skeptical too but it actually worked great. They don't ask for any personal info, just call the Washington ESD number for you and transfer you when they get through. Saved me hours of frustration.

How many job applications do you need to do per week?

It's typically 3 job search activities per week, but this can include applications, interviews, attending job fairs, or networking events. Keep detailed records because they audit these.

Good to know about the one year thing. I'm filing within a month so that's not an issue.

What counts as job search activities?

Applying for jobs, networking events, job fairs, interviews, creating/updating resumes, contacting employers directly. Just make sure you document everything!

They're pretty strict about this too. My friend got disqualified because she couldn't prove her job search activities when they audited her.

The official Washington ESD website has all the current requirements. Start there rather than random forums.

i tried but its like reading legal documents, makes no sense

It is confusing! Basically you need to have made at least $1,885 total and worked in at least 2 different quarters. So if you worked Jan-March, that's Q1, April-June is Q2, etc.

ok so if i worked 8 months like the OP that should cover at least 2 quarters right?

Right, 8 months would definitely span multiple quarters. The wage requirement is usually the trickier part.

What about if you were fired? Does it matter what the reason was?

If you were fired for misconduct (like stealing, repeated tardiness after warnings, etc.) you won't qualify. But if you were fired due to poor performance or inability to do the job, you might still be eligible.

How much does that cost? I'm already stressed about money.

It's worth checking out their site for details, but honestly the time I saved was worth it. No more sitting on hold for hours just to get hung up on.

I'll definitely look into that if I have trouble reaching them. Thanks for the tip!

That's reassuring. I was worried 8 months wasn't enough time.

Nah, it's about earnings not time. Some people work part-time for years and don't qualify because they don't earn enough.

Good point! I was planning to wait until I was sure I qualified. I'll file this week.

Exactly right. The sooner you file, the sooner your waiting week starts. Even if there are issues with your claim, it's better to have it in the system.

You can get partial benefits! Washington ESD has a formula where they reduce your weekly benefit amount based on what you earn. If you earn less than your weekly benefit amount, you'll get something.

That's great news! Do I still have to do the job search stuff while working part-time?

Yes, you still need to meet the job search requirements unless you're on standby with your employer.

What counts as a job search activity? Just submitting applications?

Job applications, attending job fairs, networking events, career counseling sessions, and even some online job search activities can count. Check the WorkSourceWA website for the full list.

Do I need to start job searching before I even apply for benefits?

You should start as soon as possible. When you file your weekly claims, you'll need to report your job search activities. I think it's 3 job contacts per week minimum.

It's actually more flexible than that now. You can do various work search activities like attending job fairs, taking classes, networking events, etc. Not just applying to jobs.

Wait, there's an hours option too? I definitely worked more than 680 hours in 8 months.

Yes, but it's 680 times your hourly wage that has to equal at least the minimum threshold. It's more complicated than just hours worked. The $1,885 total earnings is usually easier to meet.

I was definitely an employee with taxes taken out, so W-2.

Perfect, then you're good on that front.

Is that waiting week paid eventually or do you just lose that week?

You don't get paid for the waiting week unless you're on a temporary layoff with a specific return date.

I feel you! The Washington ESD website isn't the most user-friendly. Have you tried calling them directly?

I've tried calling like 50 times and either get busy signals or get disconnected after waiting forever!

What if you were laid off but they said it was 'restructuring'? Does that count as being fired?

Restructuring layoffs usually qualify you for benefits since it's not your fault. Washington ESD looks at whether you lost your job due to your own actions or business reasons.

That's not helpful. The requirements are actually pretty straightforward if you read them.

STRAIGHTFORWARD?? Have you tried navigating their website? It's a maze designed to frustrate people into giving up.

The weekly claim questions are pretty straightforward - did you work, are you able to work, are you looking for work. Just answer honestly and keep records of your job search activities.

I guess I'm overthinking it. Thanks for the reassurance.

I'm not in school, so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Good. Also make sure you're physically in Washington state when you file. They're pretty strict about that.

Yeah, I drive for rideshare and do some freelance work. It's been a nightmare trying to figure out what I qualify for.

You'd need to look into whether you have enough W-2 wages in your base period. The gig work alone usually doesn't count for regular unemployment.

How long does it take to get approved after you apply?

Mine took about 3 weeks, but I know some people who got stuck in adjudication for longer. Depends on your situation.

Adjudication is the worst part. Been waiting 6 weeks for them to decide on my claim.

What counts as good cause for quitting?

Things like unsafe working conditions, harassment, significant changes to your job duties or pay, or medical reasons. It's a pretty high bar to meet though.

Is that a separate website from the Washington ESD site?

Yes, it's worksourcewa.com. You'll need to create a profile there and keep it updated. They have job search tools and sometimes require you to attend workshops.

The Washington ESD website actually has a good eligibility tool, but yeah, it's buried in there somewhere. Much easier to just call and ask an agent directly.

Good luck getting through on the phone though. I've been trying for weeks and keep getting busy signals or disconnected.

Try using Claimyr if you really need to talk to someone. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked. Worth it when you need answers about your specific situation.

I don't think it's intentionally confusing, just poorly designed. The rules themselves are pretty straightforward once you understand them.

Easy for you to say. I've been trying to get my claim approved for weeks and keep getting told different things by different people.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - got tired of getting the runaround from different reps giving conflicting info.

True, I guess there's no penalty for trying.

Exactly. Worst case they say no and you're in the same position you're in now.

That's scary. Is there anything you can do to avoid problems like that?

Just be completely honest on your application and keep good records of everything. Document your job search activities, save any emails or letters from your employer, and respond quickly if Washington ESD asks for more information.

Oh wow, I didn't know that. So it's not just based on the job you lost?

Nope, it's calculated from all your covered wages during the base period. That's why the timing of when you file can matter.

Exactly. Washington ESD uses your highest quarter earnings and divides by 26 to get your weekly benefit amount, up to the maximum.

Is that something you do when you first apply or later?

You should register with WorkSourceWA within a week or two of filing your initial claim. It's a separate website from the Washington ESD unemployment portal.

How did you get that resolved? That sounds frustrating.

I had to contact the employer to make sure they had reported my wages correctly. Eventually got sorted out but it was a hassle.

That's a good point. I was overthinking it. I'll just apply and see what happens.

Exactly. The application process will walk you through everything, and they'll calculate your wage credits automatically.

True, but doesn't filing a claim mess up your record somehow if you don't actually qualify?

Not really. If you don't qualify, they just deny the claim. No harm done. Better than wondering forever.

What if you quit because of COVID concerns? Does that count as good cause?

That's a complicated situation. Washington ESD has specific rules about COVID-related quits. You'd probably need to talk to someone at the agency about your specific circumstances.

I used Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD about exactly this kind of question. The agent was able to explain how they handle COVID-related situations for my specific case.

How does that work with partial benefits? Do they reduce what you get based on what you earn?

Yes, they have a formula where they subtract a portion of your part-time earnings from your weekly benefit amount. As long as you earn less than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you can still get some unemployment.

That's good advice. I was hesitating because I wasn't sure about my work history but maybe I should just try.

Exactly! The application process will walk you through entering your employment history and they'll calculate whether you meet the wage requirements automatically.

Do you need tax returns or W-2s from previous years?

Not usually for the initial application, but keep them handy in case there are questions during adjudication. Washington ESD can verify wages directly with employers in most cases.

What about savings accounts or investment income? Do they count against unemployment?

No, passive income like interest or dividends doesn't affect unemployment benefits. It's only work-related income and certain pensions that matter.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

I'd rather not get into pricing details, but for me it was worth it to avoid the endless calling and busy signals. You can check their website to see if it makes sense for your situation.

Good point! Veterans also have additional resources through WorkSourceWA for job placement and training programs.

Good luck! Remember to file your initial claim as soon as possible since benefits are only paid from the date you file, not from when you lost your job.

Thanks everyone for all the detailed responses. This is exactly what I needed to know!

Yes! And keep checking your SecureAccess Washington account regularly for any requests for additional information. Missing those deadlines can delay or deny your claim.

Appeals can take months to process though, so try to get it right the first time if possible.

True, but sometimes it's worth it if you genuinely believe the denial was wrong. I successfully appealed after being initially denied for 'voluntary quit' when I was actually laid off due to company restructuring.

Hope it works out for you! The application itself isn't too bad once you have all your info ready.

Glad it worked for you! Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get answers.

That makes me feel better. I tend to overthink these things too.

How often do you have to file? Every Sunday?

Yeah, weekly claims are due by midnight on Saturday for the previous week. Don't miss them!

I missed one once and had to call Washington ESD to get it fixed. Took forever to get through.

Thanks for the reassurance. I feel more confident about applying now.

Not planning on school right now, just looking for another job.

Good, that keeps things simple for your claim.

Yeah but you have to do job searching anyway when you're unemployed, so might as well log it.

True, I just hate having to document everything.

I'll file this weekend then. Thanks everyone for the help!

Good luck! The process is pretty smooth once you get started.

Same here. Live and learn I guess.

I'll keep that in mind if I run into issues during the application process.

You're right. I'm making this more complicated than it needs to be.

I have all my pay stubs saved so I can double-check everything.

Perfect. That'll make the process much smoother.

Thanks. I feel much more confident about this now after reading everyone's responses.

What's a waiting week?

It's the first week of your claim period. You file the weekly claim but don't get paid for that week. It's like a one-week unpaid waiting period.

Unless you were laid off due to a natural disaster or certain other circumstances. But for regular layoffs, yeah, there's a waiting week.

Good to know! Were you able to get through when you called?

eventually but it took forever. someone mentioned that claimyr thing earlier - might be worth looking into if you need to call

I didn't get anything formal, just verbal notice. Should I ask for something in writing?

It wouldn't hurt to ask, but don't stress too much about it. Washington ESD will contact your employer to verify the separation reason anyway.

I didn't get any severance or vacation payout, so that shouldn't be an issue.

Perfect, then you should be able to start collecting right after your waiting week.

Thanks everyone! This has been really helpful. I feel much more confident about applying now.

Good luck! The online application is pretty straightforward. Just have your employment info and Social Security number ready.

Good advice. I'll start a folder for all the unemployment stuff.

I'll check that out. It would be nice to know roughly what to expect.

Yeah, it helps with budgeting. Just remember the calculator is an estimate - your actual amount might be slightly different.

Glad it helped someone else too! Good luck with your claim.

Yep, all my work has been in Washington state. Thanks for checking though!

Definitely will do that. I've heard overpayment issues can be a real nightmare to deal with.

They really can be. Just be thorough and honest and you should be fine.

Yes, there's a minimum earnings requirement. For 2025, you need at least $5,265 in your base period, with at least $1,755 in your highest-earning quarter. But these amounts change yearly.

Thanks! I should definitely meet that threshold.

That's encouraging! I've been reading so many nightmare stories online.

same here, my claim went super smooth. people mostly post when they have problems, not when everything works fine

Is that service legit? Seems too good to be true.

Yeah it's real. They basically call for you and connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me so much frustration trying to get through myself.

Good to know! I'll definitely opt for withholding if I get approved.

yeah that tax bill was not fun when i filed last year lol

Do you use WorkSourceWA for tracking your job searches?

I keep my own spreadsheet but also use their system. Having backup records is always good in case they audit your claim.

How long does that usually take to arrive?

Usually within a week of filing, sometimes faster if they send it electronically through your eServices account.

What if it takes longer than that? Mine's been in adjudication for over a month.

That's definitely longer than usual. You might want to try contacting them to check on the status. Sometimes claims get stuck and need a little push.

That's exactly when Claimyr really comes in handy - when you need to actually talk to someone about specific claim issues like adjudication delays.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to file my claim this weekend. Feeling much more confident about the process now.

good luck! let us know how it goes