When can you receive unemployment benefits in Washington - need clarification on eligibility timeline

Thanks for the info! What exactly counts as the 'base period' for determining eligibility?

The base period is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. Washington ESD uses this to calculate your weekly benefit amount based on your earnings during that time.

This is so important! I made that mistake my first time filing and lost a week of benefits because I didn't realize I had to keep filing even when I wasn't getting paid yet.

Interesting, I hadn't heard of that service. Is it legit? I've been dreading trying to call Washington ESD because everyone says it's impossible to get through.

Yeah it's legitimate. I used it last month when I needed to check on my adjudication status. Way better than spending hours redialing the same number over and over.

Wait, I thought it was 2 job search contacts per week? Or did they change it recently?

It's 3 contacts per week for most people. There are some exceptions for certain programs or if you're in training, but the standard requirement is 3.

And make sure you're looking for work that's suitable for your skills and experience. You can't just apply for anything and expect it to count.

What if you quit for a good reason like unsafe working conditions or harassment?

There are some exceptions for 'good cause' quits, but you'd need to provide documentation and it would likely go through adjudication. Each case is evaluated individually.

That's pretty typical if everything goes smoothly. Some people get stuck in adjudication for weeks though if there are any questions about their separation from work.

Ugh, adjudication is the worst. Mine took almost a month to resolve because my employer disputed my claim.

Good point, I wouldn't have thought about the tax implications.

Yeah, it's roughly 3.85% of your base period wages up to that maximum. So if you made minimum wage, you'd get a much smaller weekly amount.

There's also a minimum weekly benefit amount, I think it's around $295 right now.

How much can you earn before it affects your benefits?

You can earn up to your weekly benefit amount plus $5 before they start reducing your benefits dollar-for-dollar. So if your weekly benefit is $400, you can earn up to $405 without any reduction.

Is that a separate website from the Washington ESD site?

Yes, WorkSource is at worksourcewa.com. It's the state's job search system and you're required to register there as part of the unemployment claim process.

How does Claimyr work exactly? Do they just keep calling for you?

They use technology to get through the phone system and then call you when they have an agent on the line. Check out the demo video to see how it works - much easier than the alternative.

What if you're taking care of a sick family member? Does that disqualify you?

It could, depending on the circumstances. Washington ESD evaluates each situation individually, but generally you need to be available for work during normal business hours.

What happens after 26 weeks if you still haven't found work?

You'd need to file a new claim if you have sufficient earnings in a new base period, or you might be eligible for extended benefits if they're available. It depends on the unemployment rate and federal programs.

Really? I got a small severance when I was laid off but I didn't think it would matter.

Yeah, they might delay your benefits until the severance period would have ended if you were still working. It's complicated and depends on how the severance is structured.

Good to know! I was thinking I should wait until I've been looking for work for a while, but sounds like I should file right away if I become unemployed.

Exactly! File immediately and let Washington ESD determine your eligibility. Even if there are issues to resolve, getting the process started early is always better.

That's a nice break compared to some other states that tax unemployment benefits.

Thanks for all the helpful information everyone! This has been really educational. I feel much more prepared now if I ever need to file for unemployment benefits.

Glad we could help! The unemployment system can be confusing but once you understand the basics it's more manageable. Just remember to file promptly and stay on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements.