Who qualifies for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD - confused about eligibility requirements

That's a relief! I made about $1,800 total so I think I qualify. What about the work search part though?

You'll need to make 3 job search activities per week and log them through WorkSourceWA. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, etc.

Oh no, really? What's taking so long?

They said my claim is in adjudication but won't tell me why. Can't get through to anyone on the phone either.

Is this legit? Sounds too good to be true honestly.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Got through to an agent in 20 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own.

How much does it cost though?

What counts as 'no fault of your own'? I was laid off due to slow business.

Layoffs due to lack of work definitely qualify. You'd be disqualified if you were fired for misconduct or quit without good cause.

What if you quit because of unsafe working conditions?

That's not encouraging... what made it difficult?

endless paperwork, can never reach anyone, they randomly stop your benefits and dont tell you why

Should I gather any documents before applying?

Yes! Get your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment information for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason for separation.

Also helpful to have your bank account info for direct deposit setup.

Correct - you must be physically able to work and available for work. If you have medical restrictions that prevent you from working, you might not qualify for regular unemployment benefits.

What if you can work but only part-time due to childcare?

Job applications, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, networking events, employment workshops, working with employment agencies, and creating/updating professional profiles all count.

Do I have to apply for any job or can I be selective?

You should apply for suitable work in your field, but Washington ESD expects you to expand your search if you don't find work quickly.

So it really works? I might need to try it if I run into issues.

Yeah it was worth it. Beats spending hours getting hung up on or listening to busy signals.

No, you don't need to be a citizen. You need to be authorized to work in the US. This includes citizens, permanent residents, and others with valid work authorization.

ok good i have a work visa so should be fine

If there are no issues with your claim, you should hear back within 1-2 weeks. Your first payment comes after a one-week waiting period.

lol good luck with that timeline

Mine took about 10 days and that was pretty typical from what I heard.

Good to know! I'll wait until Sunday then.

Also make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week even if your initial claim is still processing.

Oh I didn't think about that. Can they automatically withhold taxes?

Yes, you can choose to have 10% federal taxes withheld when you file your claim or anytime after.

That's a good idea to batch them together. What types of activities do you usually do?

Usually 2 job applications and 1 networking contact or workshop. Sometimes I'll do 3 applications if I find good matches.

Washington participates in the Interstate Benefit Payment Plan, so earnings from other states can be combined. You'll need to file in the state where you worked most recently though.

That's helpful, I worked in Oregon for part of last year.

Your weekly benefit amount is calculated based on your earnings in your highest quarter. The maximum is currently $999 per week, but most people get less depending on their previous wages.

Is there a minimum amount?

Yes, the minimum weekly benefit is $295. The exact amount depends on your earnings history.

Yeah the terminology is confusing. What's the difference between base year and benefit year?

Base year is the period they look at to determine if you qualify (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters). Benefit year is the 52-week period you can receive benefits.

Yeah it's not the best website. I usually log my activities right after I do them so I don't forget. Sometimes it takes a few tries to get the page to load.

Good advice. I'll try logging them immediately instead of waiting until the end of the week.

I'm still skeptical about using a third-party service for this kind of thing.

I get the skepticism, but when you're dealing with rent and bills, sometimes you need to use whatever works. They don't ask for personal info or anything sketchy.

Good luck! Feel free to come back if you run into any issues with your claim.

Hope your experience goes smoother than mine did. At least you're going in prepared!

Remember to file your weekly claims on time even if your initial claim is still processing. That's important for getting paid without delays.