When can you collect unemployment in Washington - confused about eligibility timing

Thanks! So I can file right now even though I just got laid off on Friday? I was worried I had to wait a week or something.

Yes, file immediately. The waiting week is built into the system automatically, but your claim effective date starts when you file, not when you get your first payment.

I worked at the same retail store for 8 months full-time, so I think I should be good on the work history part. What exactly does 'actively seek work' mean though?

You'll need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. This includes applying for jobs, contacting employers, attending job fairs, etc.

How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you or what?

Yeah, they handle the calling and waiting on hold for you. When an agent becomes available, they connect you. Way better than sitting on hold for hours yourself.

Interesting, I might need to check that out. I've been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my claim status.

There is still a one-week waiting period before you receive your first payment, but you can file your claim immediately. The waiting period just means your first payable week won't result in a payment.

oh ok that makes more sense. so file now but dont expect money right away

Yes, you still need to file your weekly claims starting the week after you file your initial application. This is how you report your job search activities and any work/earnings.

This is so confusing! Why do they make it so complicated? I just want to know when I can get help paying my bills.

I know it seems overwhelming, but once you get into the routine it becomes easier. The key is to file your initial claim ASAP and then keep up with your weekly claims every week.

Good point! I should gather all my pay stubs and employment records before I start the application.

Exactly. Having everything organized beforehand makes the process much smoother and reduces the chance of your claim getting stuck in adjudication.

If you quit voluntarily, you generally won't be eligible for unemployment unless you can prove it was for 'good cause' like unsafe working conditions, harassment, or significant changes to your job. Getting laid off is much easier to qualify with.

Ugh, that's what I was afraid of. Guess I'm stuck until they lay me off or I find another job first.

Document everything if your workplace is truly toxic! You might be able to prove good cause if you have evidence of the problems.

Three weeks is concerning. Your claim might be in adjudication, which means Washington ESD is investigating something about your eligibility. You should try to contact them to find out what's causing the delay.

This is exactly the kind of situation where Claimyr helped me. I was stuck in adjudication for weeks and couldn't get through to anyone. They got me connected to an agent who explained what was holding up my claim.

I've tried calling so many times but can never get through. Maybe I should look into that service you mentioned.

That's really good advice. Better to file and potentially get denied than to not file at all and definitely get nothing.

Yes! And if you do get denied, you can always appeal the decision. Don't let uncertainty stop you from filing.

Yes, Washington allows partial unemployment benefits if your hours or wages have been reduced. You'll need to report your remaining wages when you file your weekly claims, and your benefit amount will be adjusted accordingly.

That's a relief! I was worried I couldn't get anything since I'm still technically employed at both places.

How do they calculate the weekly amount? Is there a formula or does it vary by person?

It's based on your highest quarter of earnings in your base period. Generally, your weekly benefit is about 3.85% of that quarter's wages, but there are minimum and maximum amounts.

The maximum weekly benefit in Washington is currently around $844 per week, but most people get less than that depending on their previous wages.

The online application through Washington ESD's website is actually pretty straightforward. It walks you through each step and tells you what information you need.

Perfect, I'm going to do it tonight. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!

Is that a separate website or is it integrated with the unemployment system?

It's a separate system (WorkSourceWA.com) but it's linked to your unemployment claim. You'll need to create an account there and keep your job search log updated.

Adjudication is when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim before they can approve it. This could be verifying your reason for separation, confirming your work history, or resolving conflicts in the information provided.

How long does that usually take?

It varies widely - could be a few days or several weeks depending on the complexity of the issue and Washington ESD's workload.

This is another situation where being able to reach an agent through Claimyr was invaluable. They could actually explain what was being investigated and what I needed to do to help resolve it faster.

Good reminder! I didn't think about the tax implications. Is it better to have them withheld or pay later?

Depends on your situation, but I always recommend having them withheld so you don't get hit with a big tax bill later. You can set this up when you file your claim or change it later.

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims on time every week once you get started.

Yes, and don't skip weeks even if you think you might not be eligible that week. It's better to file and report any issues than to miss filing altogether.

Same here! The unemployment system can be so overwhelming when you're already dealing with job loss stress.

At least we can help others avoid the same confusion. Paying it forward!