Will I qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thank you! That's reassuring. What exactly is a base period? I keep seeing that term but don't understand it.

The base period is the timeframe Washington ESD uses to determine if you earned enough wages to qualify. It's typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. So if you file in January 2025, they'd look at your wages from January 2024 through September 2024.

I was working about 35-40 hours per week most of the time. Does that sound like enough?

Yes, that should be more than enough. At 35 hours/week at $16/hour, you'd be earning around $2,240 per month, which would put you well above the minimum requirements.

Oh wow, I hadn't heard of that. Is it legit? I'm always nervous about third-party services for government stuff.

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They don't ask for any personal info or login credentials - they just help you get through the phone queue. Worth checking out if you get stuck trying to reach Washington ESD directly.

Really? Where is that tool? I'd love to get an estimate before I apply.

It's on the Washington ESD website under 'Estimate Your Benefits' - gives you a rough idea of your weekly benefit amount based on your wages.

Generally no - you need to be separated from work through no fault of your own. Quitting typically disqualifies you unless it's for 'good cause' like unsafe working conditions, harassment, or significant changes to your job.

Oh okay, that makes sense. Thanks for clarifying!

Good point about having the employer info ready. Should I contact my former employer to let them know I'm applying?

You don't need to notify them - Washington ESD will contact them directly. But it doesn't hurt to give them a heads up if you're on good terms.

It varies but usually takes 2-3 weeks if there are no issues with your claim. If they need to investigate anything (like the reason for separation), it can take longer and go into adjudication.

ugh adjudication sounds scary. what does that even mean?

Adjudication just means they're reviewing your claim in more detail - usually to verify information with your employer or clarify the circumstances of your job separation. It's not necessarily bad, just takes longer.

Apply as soon as possible! There's a one-week waiting period before you can receive benefits, and you can't be paid for any week you don't file a claim. The sooner you apply, the sooner your benefits can start.

Perfect, I'll apply tomorrow then. Thanks everyone for all the help!

That's a great point. I was definitely overthinking it and talking myself out of applying.

Good to know! Is there a specific format for the job search log?

You can use their online system or keep your own records, but you need to track the date, employer contacted, method of contact, and position you applied for.

Thanks for the encouragement! Did you have any issues with the job search requirements?

not really, just had to be consistent about applying to jobs and keeping track of everything. the 3 contacts per week requirement isnt too bad if you stay on top of it

Yes, you can work part-time and still receive partial unemployment benefits. Washington ESD will reduce your weekly benefit amount based on how much you earn, but you can still qualify for partial benefits as long as you earn less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5.

That's great to know, thanks! So I should report any part-time earnings when I file my weekly claims?

Absolutely - you must report all earnings when you file your weekly claims, even if it's just a few dollars. Failure to report earnings can result in overpayment issues.

Good to know there are options if I can't get through on my own. The phone system seems pretty overwhelmed based on what I'm reading online.

I'll definitely check that out. Thanks for the tip!

That would really help with my bills while I'm job searching. Thanks for the estimate!

No problem! The exact amount depends on your quarterly wages, but you should be in a pretty good position given your work history.

Yes, you need to register with WorkSourceWA within one week of filing your initial claim. It's part of the job search requirements. You can do it online at worksourcewa.com.

Thanks! Is there anything specific I need to do on WorkSource besides just registering?

You need to create a profile and upload your resume. Some of your job search contacts can be through WorkSource job applications, which counts toward your three weekly contacts.

Wow, that's exactly what I needed to hear. I'm definitely applying tomorrow morning!

Thank you! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel so much more confident about the process now.

I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into any issues. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Construction work definitely counts as covered employment, so as long as you meet the wage requirements you should qualify. Seasonal workers in construction often use unemployment benefits during slow periods.

That's reassuring, thanks! I'm going to apply this week.

Great job taking that step! You should hear back within 2-3 weeks if everything looks good. Don't forget to file your weekly claims once your benefit year is established.

Excellent! Keep an eye on your account for any requests for additional information. If Washington ESD needs anything else from you, respond quickly to avoid delays.

awesome! the hardest part is just getting started. youll be fine from here