When can u collect unemployment in Washington - eligibility requirements?

That's really helpful to know! I had no idea you could get partial benefits. What exactly counts as the 'base year' though?

Your base year is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in 2025, they'd look at your earnings from 2024 and part of 2023.

How long did it take you to reach someone? I've heard the phone lines are really backed up.

tried calling for like 2 weeks straight, usually got busy signal or disconnected after being on hold forever

Never heard of that before, is it legit? Seems almost too good to be true given how impossible it is to reach Washington ESD directly.

Yeah it's legitimate, check out claimyr.com. I was skeptical at first too but it actually worked. They don't ask for your Social Security number or anything sensitive, just basic contact info.

Interesting, might have to try this if I can't get through myself. The phone system is absolutely brutal.

This is exactly what I needed to know, thank you! So I should apply even before I'm completely laid off if my hours are really low?

Yes, absolutely. If your reduced hours put you below full-time work and your weekly earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5, you should apply right away.

It's definitely due to business being slow, not any performance issues on my part. Sounds like I should be okay then.

That's good. Just make sure to document everything - keep any emails or written notices about the hour reduction in case Washington ESD needs proof.

Good point! How does that work with partial unemployment - do you report the hours you did work?

Yes, you report all wages earned and hours worked each week. Washington ESD will calculate your partial benefit amount based on what you earned versus your full weekly benefit amount.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - the regular phone system was impossible. At least with their service I actually got to talk to a real person at Washington ESD.

I feel your pain. The system is definitely not user-friendly, especially when you're already stressed about work and money.

Wait, what's a waiting week? I thought benefits started right away once approved.

Washington doesn't have a waiting week anymore - they eliminated it in 2020. You can receive benefits starting with your first week of unemployment if you're eligible. But the point about filing quickly still stands.

Good catch on the waiting week - I forgot they got rid of that. Makes it even more important to file as soon as possible.

What kind of documentation do they want for job searches?

You need to log your job search activities - where you applied, when, what type of position, etc. Washington ESD can audit this information so keep good records.

I'm not union but that's good advice for others who might be reading this.

That's a good point. I guess there's no penalty for applying if you don't qualify?

Correct, there's no penalty for applying in good faith. Just make sure you're honest and accurate in your application.

That's awesome! I think I'm going to try it too since I need to get some specific questions answered about my situation.

Glad it worked for you! It really makes a difference being able to talk to someone who knows the system.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved initially?

Mine was approved within about 10 days, but I know some people wait longer if there are any issues that need adjudication.

Yeah, everyone seems to be saying the same thing about filing quickly. I'm convinced now that I should apply as soon as possible.

Seasonal work can affect your claim, especially if you have a reasonable assurance of returning to work. You'd need to speak with Washington ESD directly about your specific situation.

Another good reason to use something like Claimyr to actually get through and talk to someone who can give you accurate info about seasonal work rules.

You're welcome! Good luck with your claim. Remember to keep documenting everything and file those weekly claims consistently.

Hope it works out for you! Don't hesitate to come back here if you run into any issues during the process.

Definitely file soon and consider using that phone service if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. It really does make a difference.

Good thinking, I'll gather all that information before I start the application. Thanks for the heads up!

Right? I learned so much from everyone's responses. Good luck with your application if you decide to file!

The partial unemployment benefit really is underutilized because people don't know about it. Spread the word!

You typically don't need to file a new claim - just report the change in your weekly claim filing. Your benefit amount should automatically adjust to the full amount you're eligible for.

That's correct. I went from partial to full unemployment and it was just a matter of reporting zero wages and hours on my weekly claim.

That's exactly what I was worried about - missing out on benefits I might be eligible for. Sorry you had to go through that financial stress.

It's really unfortunate how many people don't know about partial benefits. The system should do a better job of educating workers about all their options.