What to do if you don't qualify for unemployment in Washington - need alternatives

Sorry to hear about your denial. There are definitely other options to explore. First, did you file an appeal with Washington ESD? Sometimes the base period calculation can be wrong. Also look into DSHS programs like Basic Food (SNAP) and cash assistance. WorkSource centers offer job training programs too.

been there, it sucks. when i got denied i applied for everything - food stamps, medicaid, even looked into local food banks. also check if your city has any emergency rental assistance programs

Have you tried calling Washington ESD to get more details about your denial? Sometimes there are calculation errors or they might be able to explain alternative base periods. I know it's hard to get through but there's actually a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps people get connected to ESD agents faster. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Check if you qualify for the alternate base period! Washington ESD has to consider your most recent work if the standard base period doesn't work. This might include wages from the quarter you were laid off.

This happened to my sister last year. She ended up getting approved for TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) through DSHS while she looked for work. Also got help with childcare costs through Working Connections.

dont give up yet! i got denied first time but when i appealed they found wages from a job i had forgotten about. also look into gig work like uber or doordash while you figure things out

Look into your local community action agency. They often have emergency assistance programs for utilities, rent, and food. Also check if you qualify for discounted internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program since you'll need internet for job searching.

THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN!! They deny people left and right who actually need help. Meanwhile rich people get tax breaks. Sorry for the rant but this makes me so angry.

Check with 211 (dial 2-1-1) for local resources. They have a database of assistance programs in your area. Also look into WIC if you qualify and local churches often have food pantries even if you're not a member.

Also consider looking into training programs through WorkSource. Some of them provide stipends while you're learning new skills. And definitely get your resume updated and posted on job sites.

I was denied initially but then used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier to get through to Washington ESD. Turns out they had the wrong social security number on file for one of my employers. Got approved after they fixed it.

Look into plasma donation if you're healthy and need quick cash. It's not a long-term solution but can help with immediate expenses while you figure out other options.

Check if you qualify for emergency assistance through your utility companies too. Most have programs for people facing disconnection. Also look into local mutual aid groups on Facebook.

If you're comfortable with it, consider freelance work or task-based jobs through apps like TaskRabbit or Fiverr. You can start earning while you sort out the unemployment situation.

Don't forget to document everything for your appeal. Keep copies of all your pay stubs, tax returns, and any communication with Washington ESD. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case.

Also look into credit union assistance programs if you're a member. Many offer small emergency loans or financial counseling services.

You mentioned working part-time for 8 months. Did you work for multiple employers during that time? Sometimes Washington ESD misses wages from smaller employers or temp agencies.

Last resort but important: if you're really struggling with housing, look into local homeless prevention programs. They often help with rent and deposits before you become homeless.

I see a lot of good advice here. The key is to pursue multiple options at once - appeal the denial, apply for other assistance programs, and start looking for alternative income sources. Don't put all your eggs in one basket.

One more thing - if you do end up getting approved for unemployment later, you might be able to get back pay from when you first applied. So definitely keep track of your job search activities just in case.