When can a person file for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

You can file for unemployment benefits in Washington as soon as you become unemployed or have your hours significantly reduced. For partial unemployment, you're eligible if you're working less than full-time and earning less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5. Don't wait - file as soon as your hours are cut because there's a one-week waiting period before benefits start.

I was in a similar situation last year and waited too long to file thinking I needed to be completely unemployed first. Big mistake! You can file immediately when your work situation changes - whether that's a layoff, hour reduction, or even if you quit for good cause. The key is don't delay because benefits are only paid from the date you file, not backdated.

The general rule is you can file for unemployment benefits if you're unemployed through no fault of your own, or if your hours/wages have been significantly reduced. In Washington, you need to have worked and earned wages in at least two quarters of your base period. You also need to be able and available for work, and actively seeking employment.

I've been struggling to get through to Washington ESD for weeks about my claim timing. Their phone lines are always busy and I keep getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually reach an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. It was so much easier than spending hours on hold!

File as soon as possible! I made the mistake of thinking I had to wait until my official last day at work. Turns out you can file the day you receive notice of layoff or significant hour reduction. The waiting week starts from your filing date, not your last work day.

been through this mess before and the timing rules are stupid complicated. basically you can file when: 1) you get fired (not for misconduct), 2) you get laid off, 3) your hours get cut significantly, 4) you quit for good cause, 5) your temporary job ends. the key thing is FILE IMMEDIATELY when any of these happen because every day you wait is money lost

Here's what most people don't know - you can file for unemployment even if you're working part-time at a new job after losing your main job. As long as your total earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5, you can get partial benefits. This is huge for people taking temporary or part-time work while job searching.

Don't forget about the work search requirements when you file. In Washington, you generally need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. Some people are exempt from this requirement depending on their situation (like if you're on temporary layoff with a return date).

I filed immediately when I got my layoff notice but my claim has been stuck in adjudication for 2 weeks now. Apparently they need to verify the reason for my separation with my employer. This is taking forever and I'm getting stressed about bills.

One thing to remember is that you must file your claim in the state where you worked, not necessarily where you live. If you worked in Washington but live in Oregon, you still file with Washington ESD. Also, if you worked in multiple states, it gets more complicated and you might need to file a combined wage claim.

For anyone filing - make sure you have all your employment information ready including dates of employment, reason for separation, and your employer's address. The online application through SecureAccess Washington is pretty straightforward once you have all the info gathered.

PSA: Don't wait to file thinking you'll find another job quickly! Even if you think you'll be back to work soon, file anyway. You can always stop claiming benefits if you find work, but you can't get back pay for weeks you didn't claim.

If you're still employed but expecting a layoff, start gathering your documents now. You'll need your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment history. Having everything ready means you can file immediately when the layoff happens instead of scrambling to find paperwork.

The system is set up to help people get benefits as quickly as possible, so don't overthink the timing. File when you become unemployed or underemployed, answer the questions honestly, and submit your weekly claims on time. Most claims are approved without issues if you qualify.

Just wanted to add that military members have special rules for unemployment benefits. If you're transitioning out of the military, you might be eligible for Unemployment Compensation for Ex-servicemembers (UCX). The timing and requirements are different from regular unemployment.

One last tip - even if your employer offers severance pay, you can usually still file for unemployment benefits. Severance might affect the timing of when benefits start, but it doesn't automatically disqualify you. Check with Washington ESD about how severance impacts your specific situation.