btw when u do ur weekly claims make sure u check ur eServices inbox every week too. sometimes they send u important messages there and dont email u about them. my friend almost got her benefits cancelled cuz she missed some questionnaire they sent

Great job applying, Mei! You're doing exactly the right thing. One more tip from my experience - keep detailed records of everything. I created a simple spreadsheet tracking my weekly hours worked, gross earnings, and benefit payments. It saved me when ESD questioned something months later. Also, if your employer ever gives you a written notice about potential hour increases or changes, save those emails/documents too. They can be helpful if you need to request standby status later or if there are any disputes. The $435 weekly benefit should definitely help bridge the gap while you're dealing with reduced hours!

One last thing for the original poster - make sure you apply as soon as you become unemployed if you think you might qualify. You can't get benefits for weeks before you file your claim, so don't wait around trying to figure out every detail first.

Just wanted to add that if you're still confused about whether your work history qualifies, you can also visit a local WorkSource office in person. They have staff who can help you understand the base period requirements and even help you apply if needed. Sometimes it's easier to get these questions answered face-to-face rather than trying to navigate the website or phone system. Plus they can help you explore other resources if unemployment doesn't work out.

Update us on how it goes! I'm sure other people in similar situations would benefit from hearing about your experience with the dispute process.

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago. My former employer claimed I was terminated for "policy violations" when I was actually laid off due to restructuring. The key is to respond quickly and thoroughly to their dispute. I submitted my termination paperwork, email communications with my supervisor, and even got a statement from a coworker who witnessed the layoff announcement. It took about 6 weeks to resolve, but I won the case and received all my back benefits. Don't let them intimidate you - if you were truly laid off due to budget cuts and have documentation proving it, you should prevail. The adjudicator will look at all the evidence from both sides before making a decision.

One more thing - if you owe child support or have other government debts, they can garnish your unemployment benefits. Just something to be aware of if that applies to your situation.

The bottom line is unemployment benefits aren't meant to be a permanent solution - they're temporary assistance while you find new work. If you approach it with that mindset and stay compliant with all the requirements, the advantages usually outweigh the disadvantages.

This thread has been really helpful! I'm in a similar situation as a school paraprofessional. Going to file this week too and see what happens.

I'm a school custodian and went through this same situation last year. The good news is that Washington ESD approved me after about 4 weeks of review. What really helped my case was showing that even though I've worked at the same school for 3 years, I don't have any written contract or formal guarantee that I'll be rehired each year. They just verbally ask me to come back. Also, make sure to emphasize that you work full-time hours even though you're classified as part-time - that was a key factor in my approval. I'd recommend filing as soon as possible since the adjudication process can take a while, and you want to get that clock started. Don't let the bureaucracy discourage you - if you're truly not guaranteed to return, you deserve those benefits during the summer months when you have no income.