Definitions of terms

In Washington state, an unemployment claimant's alternate base year is the last 4 calendar quarters completed at the time they apply for benefits. If someone did not work 680 hours in their regular base year, they may be able to file a claim using their alternate base year.

In Washington state, an unemployment claimant's base year is the first 4 of the last 5 calendar quarters completed at the time they apply for benefits. A claimant must have worked 680 hours in covered employment during their regular base year to qualify for unemployment benefits.