Who can claim unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about eligibility requirements

That's such a relief to hear! Do you know what the minimum earnings threshold is exactly?

I believe it's around $1,200 in your highest quarter but Washington ESD calculates it differently. Best to file and let them determine eligibility officially.

What does 'actively seeking work' actually mean though? Do they check up on your job applications?

Yes, you have to do job search activities each week and keep a log. Washington ESD can audit your search activities so keep good records.

Never heard of that service before. Did it actually work for getting through to someone at Washington ESD?

Yeah it did! I was skeptical at first but it saved me from sitting on hold for hours. Really helped when I needed to clarify some eligibility questions.

Part-time work can count toward your base period wages, and some gig work might too depending on how it was classified. You should definitely apply and let Washington ESD review your work history.

ok thanks ill try filing this week and see what happens

What if you quit your job? Can you still get unemployment benefits?

Generally no, but there are 'good cause' exceptions like unsafe working conditions, harassment, or significant changes to job duties. You'd need to prove the circumstances warranted quitting.

That makes sense. My situation was definitely just wanting a career change so probably wouldn't qualify.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - it really helps with getting through to Washington ESD agents when the phone lines are swamped. Worth checking out if you need to talk to someone.

Might have to try that. This is driving me crazy and I just need basic answers about my claim.

That's helpful! How long did it take to get approved after you filed?

About 2 weeks for me, but I've heard it can take longer if they need to verify employment or if there are any questions about your separation.

Oh I didn't know about that requirement. When do you have to register by?

I think it's within 5 business days of filing your initial claim, but double-check the Washington ESD website to be sure.

How do they calculate the actual weekly benefit amount once you're approved?

It's based on your highest quarter earnings divided by 26, but there's a minimum and maximum weekly benefit amount. Washington ESD has calculators on their website.

Really? I thought students couldn't get unemployment at all.

It depends on the situation. Part-time students or those between terms might qualify, but full-time students generally don't unless they meet specific exceptions.

Yes, that's normal especially if you had multiple employers or any gaps. Just provide the requested documentation promptly to avoid delays.

ok good was worried i did something wrong lol

What about people who do both W2 work and 1099 contractor work? Does the W2 portion count?

Yes, the W2 wages count toward your base period earnings. The 1099 work generally doesn't unless you made special tax elections.

That's good to know. Do they use military pay to calculate benefits or just civilian wages?

I believe they can use federal military wages, but there might be special procedures. Veterans should contact Washington ESD directly for guidance.

I think it's 3 job search activities per week, but they can include applications, networking, interviews, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records of everything.

Thanks, that seems manageable as long as I document everything properly.

How strict are they about the weekly claim deadlines?

Pretty strict. You can be late occasionally but repeated late filings can cause issues. Set reminders to file every week.

Good advice, I'll definitely set up calendar reminders if I get approved.

I hadn't thought about the tax implications. Is it better to have them withhold taxes or pay later?

Depends on your situation, but many people prefer having taxes withheld to avoid a big bill at tax time.

Thank you! I'm going to file this weekend. Feeling much more confident about my eligibility now.

Good luck! The process is pretty straightforward once you get started.

How much does something like that cost? Seems like it might be worth it to avoid the phone hassles.

I don't remember the exact cost but it was reasonable considering how much time and frustration it saved me. Check their website for current pricing.

That's a helpful summary. The 'able and available' part - does that mean you can't travel while on unemployment?

You can travel but you have to report it and still be available for work. Extended travel might affect your benefits.

Good point! I was planning to wait until next week but I'll file this weekend instead.

Smart move. Even if you're not 100% sure about eligibility, it's better to apply and find out than miss out on potential benefits.