When are you eligible for unemployment in Washington - confused about requirements

Thanks! So if I file now in January 2025, my base period would be like October 2023 through September 2024? And what exactly counts as being available for work?

Exactly right on the base period timing. For able and available, you need to be physically and mentally capable of working, ready to accept suitable work immediately, and not have restrictions that significantly limit your job opportunities. Minor limitations usually don't disqualify you as long as you can still perform a reasonable range of jobs.

Have you tried using Claimyr? I found them at claimyr.com and they actually got me connected to a real Washington ESD agent within like 20 minutes. There's even a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Never heard of that, is it legit? I'm desperate at this point

Yeah it's totally legitimate, they just help you get through the phone queue faster. I was skeptical too but it actually worked and saved me so much time and frustration.

That's really helpful! I was making about $18/hour at both jobs so I think I should be fine on the wage requirements. What about the job search thing though? How many jobs do you have to apply for?

You need to complete at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log of everything. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, or working with WorkSource. Make sure to document everything because Washington ESD can audit your job search records at any time.

No, there's no requirement to work for a full year. You just need sufficient wages in your base period quarters. If you were fired, the key question is WHY you were fired. If it was for misconduct, you might be disqualified. But if it was for performance issues or layoffs, you should still qualify.

They said I was fired for attendance issues but I was only late a few times because of childcare problems. Can I appeal that?

Yes, you can definitely appeal a disqualification decision. You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal. Attendance issues don't always constitute misconduct, especially if there were legitimate reasons like childcare. Document everything and consider getting a hearing.

That's encouraging! My back thing is really minor, like I just can't stand for 8+ hours straight but I can do most other work. Sounds like I should be okay.

Yeah you should be fine. The key is being honest about your limitations but also showing that you're actively looking for work within those limitations. Keep applying for jobs you can actually do and document everything.

Good point! I got laid off about 2 weeks ago but haven't filed yet because I was trying to understand the requirements first. I should probably just file now and figure out the details later?

Absolutely file ASAP. The worst that happens is they deny you and you can appeal. But if you wait longer you're just losing potential benefit weeks. You can always clarify information later but you can't backdate your claim start date.

Seriously try that Claimyr thing the other person mentioned. I used it last week when I needed to check on my adjudication status and it actually worked. Got through to someone in like 15 minutes instead of calling for days and getting nowhere.

Okay I'm convinced, going to check out claimyr.com right now. Thanks for the rec!

I hadn't thought about training programs. I've been wanting to learn some new computer skills anyway. Do you know if those programs pay more than regular unemployment?

Training programs usually pay the same weekly benefit amount as regular UI, but they can extend your benefits while you're in approved training. Plus you don't have to do the regular job search requirements. Definitely worth looking into if you want to upgrade your skills.

Great tip! Do you happen to know what the maximum weekly benefit is right now?

I think it's around $844 per week for 2025, but that's for people with really high wages. Most people get somewhere between $200-500 per week depending on their earnings history.

I did get 2 weeks severance pay. Does that mean I have to wait 2 weeks before I can collect unemployment?

It depends on how the severance was structured. If it was paid as a lump sum, it might not affect your benefits. If it was designated for specific weeks, those weeks might be disqualified. You should report it when you file and let Washington ESD make the determination.

That's reassuring! I think I'm going to file my claim this weekend. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info.

Good luck! Don't stress too much about getting everything perfect on the initial application. You can always provide additional information later if needed.

Good to know! I have all those documents so I should be set. Hopefully the whole process goes smoothly.

The ID verification usually happens pretty quickly if you have all the right documents. It's when people have missing or unclear documentation that claims get stuck in adjudication for weeks.