Bottom line - yes you can work part-time and collect unemployment in Washington. Report your earnings honestly, keep looking for full-time work, and don't stress about it. The system is designed to help people transition back to full employment, not trap them in poverty while they job hunt.

This is exactly the situation I was in a few months ago! Working part-time while collecting unemployment actually ended up being a great bridge while I searched for full-time work. One thing I learned that might help - when you file your weekly claims online, there's a section specifically for reporting part-time work. It walks you through exactly what to enter for hours and earnings, so you don't have to guess at the calculations. The system does all the math for you based on your weekly benefit amount. Just make sure you have your pay stubs handy when you file each week to get the numbers right.

Bottom line - don't ignore this. The consequences are real and they have serious collection powers. Either pay it, set up a payment plan, or appeal if you think it's wrong. But do something before the 30-day deadline passes.

I went through something similar last year and ended up working with Washington ESD on a payment plan. The key is to call them ASAP and be completely honest about your financial situation. They have hardship provisions that can reduce your monthly payment to something manageable - mine went from $300/month down to $50/month after I provided bank statements and proof of my expenses. Don't wait until they start garnishing because once that process begins it's much harder to negotiate. Also, make sure you have all your documentation ready when you call - pay stubs, the original overpayment notice, and any records of the work you reported. The collections department is actually more reasonable than people think if you're proactive about addressing it.

The pandemic really highlighted how broken the system is for gig workers. Hopefully that leads to some changes eventually.

Final update: I filed my claim and it's under review! They're looking at my wages from the marketing agency job. Fingers crossed it works out. Thanks to everyone who helped explain how this works.

Just want to add - keep track of your earnings from your current job including your last full week of work. Washington ESD needs this info to calculate your benefit amount, and if you quit mid-week it can affect which week your claim starts from.

I went through a similar situation two years ago and ended up getting approved, but it was a long process. The most important thing I learned is that Washington ESD really wants to see a pattern of problems and that you made genuine efforts to resolve them before quitting. Start documenting everything NOW - even if you don't quit, having records protects you. Save emails, write down incidents with dates and witnesses, and definitely follow up with HR in writing about your previous conversations. Also consider if there are any company policies being violated - that can strengthen your case significantly. The mental health angle is valid but you'll need medical documentation showing how work is specifically impacting you. Don't just quit impulsively - build your case first. Good luck!

I went through the same thing a few months ago. The frustration is real! One tip that helped me - if you do try calling at 8am, have the number already dialed and hit call at exactly 8:00:00. Even a few seconds late and you'll be stuck in the queue forever. Also, don't hang up if you get the busy signal - sometimes it will actually connect you after a minute or two. The system is definitely broken but these little tricks can help you work around it.

I had the exact same problem last year and ended up having to get creative. After weeks of trying to call, I actually contacted my state representative's office and they have a constituent services team that can help with state agency issues. They reached out to Washington ESD on my behalf and got a response within 3 days. It's not guaranteed but it's worth a shot if you've exhausted other options. You can find your rep on the Washington State Legislature website. Sometimes going through a different channel gets you faster results than the normal system.