Final tip - when you file your claim, be completely honest about everything. It's better to explain a complicated situation upfront than to have Washington ESD discover something later that looks like you were trying to hide it.

Just wanted to add that I went through a similar situation last year - my hours got cut from full-time to part-time and I eventually had to quit because it wasn't sustainable financially. Washington ESD approved my claim because the substantial reduction in hours was considered good cause. The key is documenting everything like others mentioned - I kept copies of my old schedule vs new schedule, emails about the changes, and even screenshots of my reduced paychecks. It took about 3 weeks to get my first payment but it was worth the wait. Don't let fear of disqualification stop you from filing - the worst they can say is no, and then you can appeal if needed.

Final thought - whatever you do, don't leave it blank. I know someone who did that and it delayed their claim for weeks while they sorted it out. Just pick something reasonable and move forward.

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! Had worked as everything from retail associate to team lead to operations coordinator. I ended up putting my most recent title (operations coordinator) even though I'd only been in that role for 8 months versus 2+ years in retail. My claim went through without any issues. The key thing I learned is that Washington ESD pulls your actual wage data directly from employers, so the occupation dropdown is really just for their internal tracking and job search guidance. Don't stress too much about finding the "perfect" match - just pick the closest option to your most recent role and you'll be fine!

This thread has been super helpful! I'm in a similar situation and was stressed about how to handle the part-time work. Sounds like as long as I'm honest and report everything accurately, I should be fine.

I've been collecting partial benefits while working part-time for about 4 months now, and honestly it's been a lifesaver. The key things that helped me avoid any issues: 1) I set up a simple spreadsheet to track my weekly hours and gross earnings before each claim, 2) I always round UP when reporting earnings (better to overestimate than underestimate), and 3) I screenshot my weekly claim confirmations for my records. The Washington ESD system actually works pretty well once you get into the routine. Also, don't forget that your work search activities can include networking events, career fairs, and informational interviews - not just online applications!

I'm going through something similar right now - been stuck in adjudication for 7 weeks after being laid off from my marketing job. What's helped me so far is keeping a detailed log of every contact attempt with ESD (date, time, what happened) and all the steps I've taken. One thing I discovered is that you can also contact your local legislators through the "Request Assistance" forms on their websites rather than just calling. I filled out the form for both my state rep and senator last week explaining my situation in detail. The senator's office responded within 2 days and said they'd contact ESD on my behalf. Also, if you have any coworkers who were also laid off in the same restructuring, having them as potential witnesses to back up your story could strengthen your case. Document everything and don't give up - the system is broken but people do eventually get through it.

I went through almost the exact same situation last year - 4 months in adjudication hell with a former employer who was clearly stalling. What finally broke things loose for me was a combination approach: 1. Filed a complaint with the Attorney General's office about my employer's bad faith handling of unemployment claims (they have a worker protection unit) 2. Contacted my state senator's office using their online constituent services form - way more effective than calling 3. Sent a certified letter to ESD's main office in Olympia with copies of all my documentation The key thing that seemed to make the difference was when the senator's office got involved - they have a direct liaison with ESD leadership. My claim was approved within 2 weeks of their intervention. Also, start documenting the financial hardship this delay is causing you (late fees, potential eviction notices, etc.). Sometimes showing the real-world impact helps prioritize your case. Hang in there - I know how desperate and helpless this feels, but you will get through it!

Bottom line - yes you can collect both. Just be honest about all your income sources and you'll be fine. Good luck with your job search!

I went through this same situation last year at 63 after getting laid off from Microsoft. You can definitely collect both - I've been doing it for 14 months now without any issues. The key things to remember: 1) Report your full social security amount on your weekly claims, 2) Keep detailed records of your job search activities (3 per week minimum), and 3) Don't let anyone tell you that collecting social security means you're "retired" - as long as you're actively looking for work, you're eligible. The Washington ESD agents I spoke with were very clear that these are completely separate programs. One tip: when you file your initial claim online, there's a specific section where you'll enter your social security income - don't skip it thinking it doesn't apply. Good luck with your search!