When is someone eligible for unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

So if I file now in January 2025, my base period would be like January 2024 through December 2024?

Actually no, it would be October 2023 through September 2024. They use completed quarters, so if you file in January 2025, they look back to the most recent completed quarter which was October-December 2024.

What counts as actively searching? Do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs each week?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. You can do this through WorkSourceWA or on your own but you have to document everything.

How does that work exactly? Do they just help you get through the phone lines?

Yeah basically they handle the calling and waiting on hold for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me probably 10+ hours of trying to call myself.

That sounds complicated. Is there a way to check if I meet the monetary requirements before filing?

You can estimate it but the easiest way is just to file your claim. If you don't meet the requirements they'll let you know and you can try using an alternate base period if that helps.

I know it seems overwhelming but once you understand the base period concept it makes more sense. They need a consistent way to measure everyone's work history.

i guess but its still super frustrating when you just lost your job and need help

Being in school can affect your eligibility if it interferes with your ability to work full-time. But there are exceptions for certain approved training programs.

Good to know, I was thinking about taking some classes while I'm unemployed.

File as soon as possible! There's a waiting week before you can receive benefits, and you can't be paid for weeks before you file your claim.

Definitely don't wait. Even if there are issues with your claim, it's better to get the process started early.

I did get a small severance. Does that mean I can't get unemployment at all?

No, you can still get unemployment but the severance might delay when your benefits begin. They'll ask about it when you file your claim.

That actually sounds pretty useful. I always get anxious calling government offices.

Same here! That's exactly why I tried it. Much less stressful than trying to navigate the phone system yourself.

Part-time work counts toward your base period wages as long as it was in covered employment. The key is having enough total wages across all your jobs during the base period.

That makes sense. So it's really about your total earnings, not whether each individual job was full-time or part-time.

Self-employment usually doesn't count for regular unemployment unless you were paying into the system as an employee somewhere else too. There might be other programs available though.

I'll let them know to look into other options then. Thanks!

Great! Make sure you file your weekly claims on time even while your initial claim is being processed.

And start your job search activities right away. You'll need to report them on your weekly claims.

It varies a lot. Simple claims might be approved within a week or two, but if there are any issues that require adjudication it can take much longer.

What kind of issues cause adjudication delays?

That could potentially qualify as good cause for quitting, but you'd need to document the hostile work environment. It's more complicated than a layoff situation.

I do have some emails and text messages. Should I include those when I file?

That's a good point. I was dreading trying to explain everything over the phone but maybe that service would make it easier.

Exactly! They take care of getting you connected so you can focus on explaining your situation instead of worrying about getting through.

The basic unemployment program is the same regardless of industry, but there might be additional training or reemployment services available depending on your situation.

I should look into that. The hospitality job market is still pretty rough in some areas.

That's right! Multiple short-term jobs can definitely add up to meet the requirements. The system looks at your total wages across all covered employment.

thats a relief. going to file my claim this week

Good reminder! I had to dig through my old paystubs to get all the details.

Yeah it's worth taking the time to gather everything first. Makes the application process much smoother.

Happy to help! The unemployment system can be confusing but once you understand the basics it gets easier.

Definitely feeling more confident about filing now.