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If you're really unsure about whether you qualify, just apply anyway. The worst they can say is no, and then at least you'll know for sure. The application process itself will tell you if you meet the requirements.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I think I understand it better now. Sounds like I probably qualify since I made good money even though I was only part-time. Going to gather my documents and apply this week.
For what it's worth, I tried calling Washington ESD directly about this same question and gave up after 3 hours on hold. Ended up finding most of my answers on their website, but talking to a real person would have been better. Might try that Claimyr thing people mentioned.
UPDATE: I took the part-time job and everything worked out fine! Been working for 2 weeks now and my partial benefits are coming through as expected. The online system calculated everything correctly when I reported my earnings. Thanks everyone for the advice!
One thing that helped me was calling the Washington ESD automated line first to check my claim status before trying to reach a person. Sometimes you can get the info you need without waiting on hold.
Just want to say thanks to everyone sharing their experiences. This thread has been more helpful than anything I found on the official Washington ESD website!
Don't forget about the earnings reporting requirements. If you work part-time while on unemployment and don't report it correctly, that's grounds for denial and possible overpayment issues.
The appeal process isn't that bad if you're organized. I appealed a misconduct denial and won by showing the employer's allegations were exaggerated. Just make sure you meet the 30-day deadline!
Omar Fawaz
Bottom line - if you're a W-2 employee and you lost work through no fault of your own, you should qualify for unemployment benefits. The process might take a while but don't let that discourage you from filing.
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Ava Martinez
•Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I'm going to file this weekend and see what happens.
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Connor Murphy
•Good luck! And remember, if you run into issues getting through to Washington ESD, Claimyr can really help speed up the process of reaching an agent.
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Chloe Anderson
One last tip - if your claim gets approved, your weekly benefit amount will be based on your highest earning quarter in the past year. So if you had a really good quarter, that'll help your benefit calculation.
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Ava Martinez
•That's good to know. I had one quarter where I was working with three different clients so hopefully that helps.
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Chloe Anderson
•Exactly! Washington ESD uses your best quarter to calculate benefits, so those higher earning periods really matter.
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