Will I get unemployment benefits through Washington ESD - worried about eligibility

Thank you so much! That's such a relief to hear. I was so worried about that employment gap.

Yeah the base period calculation is key - they don't care about gaps as much as total earnings in that timeframe

I'm going to file today. Do I need any specific documents when I apply online?

Have your Social Security card, driver's license, and information about your last employer handy. You'll also need your most recent pay stub if you have it.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents by phone. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me hours of calling!

Interesting, I'll definitely check that out. I'm getting so frustrated with the busy signals.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true but at this point I'm desperate

What exactly do I need to do for the job search requirements? I keep hearing different things.

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. You can apply online, go to job fairs, contact employers directly - just document everything.

That's exactly what I'm worried about! Did they say why it took so long?

something about adjudication but they never really explained it properly. just kept saying to wait

This is good advice. I was laid off due to company downsizing and my claim was approved within a week.

That's encouraging to hear. I have my layoff notice from HR so I should be able to prove it wasn't my fault.

Good to know! When do the weekly claims become available to file?

Usually Sunday mornings you can file for the previous week. Set a reminder because you only have until Saturday night to file each weekly claim or you lose that week's benefits.

Wait really? I thought you could file late weekly claims?

How much does something like that cost though? I'm already tight on money

It's worth it when you consider how much time you save vs calling yourself for hours. Plus if you can't get your claim issues resolved, you're losing way more money in delayed benefits.

That's so reassuring! Thank you for sharing your experience. How long did it take from filing to getting your first payment?

About 2 weeks for me, but that was pretty typical timing. Some people get it faster, some take longer depending on if there are any verification issues.

Oh I didn't know about that! Is that separate from filing the unemployment claim?

Yes it's a separate registration but you'll get instructions about it when you file your claim. It's basically Washington state's job search portal.

WorkSourceWA is actually pretty helpful for finding jobs too, not just a requirement

That's a great idea! I'll look for that on their website. Thanks!

Yeah it's under the 'Calculate Benefits' section. Pretty accurate in my experience.

You're absolutely right. I keep forgetting that I did pay into this system with every paycheck. Thank you for the perspective!

Good point. I might pick up some gig work while I'm looking for full-time employment.

You can still work part-time and collect benefits, they just reduce your weekly amount based on what you earn. Better to report it and get partial benefits than hide it and get in trouble.

This is super important advice - I know someone who got hit with a huge overpayment notice because they didn't report some cash work they did

Thank you everyone for all the advice and reassurance! I'm going to file my claim this afternoon. This thread has been incredibly helpful.