


Ask the community...
The good news is that being laid off due to budget cuts is clearly a qualifying separation. You won't have to worry about any disqualification issues like people who quit or get fired for misconduct.
Bottom line: don't let the short time at your recent job stop you from filing. Washington ESD looks at your entire work history over 15 months, not just your last position. File your claim ASAP!
One final piece of advice - read through the claimant handbook they provide. I know it's dry, but understanding your rights and responsibilities upfront can save you problems later.
Just remember, if you hit any roadblocks with contacting ESD during your claim process, that Claimyr service at claimyr.com really does work. I've recommended it to several people who were stuck trying to reach someone at the unemployment office.
Honestly, given your situation with rent being $1,200 and only working 10 hours now, filing for unemployment seems like a no-brainer. The benefits will help bridge the gap while you look for better employment. Don't overthink it - just apply.
Good luck with your application! Once you get it submitted, you should hear back within a week or so about your eligibility. Remember to keep looking for work and document your job search activities from day one.
The whole employer notification thing used to stress me out too, but my old boss never even mentioned it when I ran into him months later. I think most employers just deal with the paperwork and move on.
Great thread, learned a lot about how the funding actually works. I always assumed it came straight from the employer but the pooled system makes way more sense.
Felicity Bud
Thank you all so much for the advice and support! I feel much more confident about applying for partial unemployment now. This community is amazing!
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Max Reyes
•You're welcome! Hope everything works out for you.
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Mikayla Davison
•Good luck with your application! And remember, help is available if you need to contact Washington ESD.
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Jasmine Hancock
For anyone else reading this thread later - yes, you CAN collect partial unemployment if your hours are reduced! Don't suffer in silence, these benefits exist to help people in exactly this situation.
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Cole Roush
•Wish I had known this sooner! I struggled for months before finding out about partial benefits.
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Saleem Vaziri
•Same here! This thread has been a lifesaver.
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