I think the confusion comes from people mixing up unemployment with other benefits that might have restrictions on reapplying.

I've filed for unemployment benefits twice in Washington over the past few years and it's really straightforward. The key thing is that each claim is completely independent - as long as you worked enough hours and earned sufficient wages between claims, you're eligible for a new benefit year. Washington ESD doesn't penalize you for filing multiple times, it's actually very common especially in industries with seasonal work or frequent layoffs. Just make sure you have all your recent employer information ready when you file online.

Update us on what happens! This is important information for lots of workers in similar situations. If you end up having to quit and file for full UI, make sure you're very specific about the circumstances in your application - that you were forced to choose between termination or economic hardship due to their restrictions on outside employment despite reduced hours.

I've been in the workforce for 35+ years and have seen employers try this manipulation tactic before. What your casino is doing sounds like they're trying to have their cake and eat it too - reducing your hours to cut labor costs while still maintaining control over your ability to earn a living wage elsewhere. A few things to keep in mind for your HR meeting tomorrow: 1. Ask them to cite the specific policy that prohibits second jobs 2. Point out that you're seeking additional work BECAUSE they reduced your hours 3. Emphasize that there's no scheduling conflict or competition issue 4. Request any restrictions in writing If they can't provide a legitimate business reason for the restriction, you may want to consider this constructive discharge. The fact that multiple employees are in the same situation suggests this might be a pattern worth reporting to the appropriate agencies. Good luck with your meeting - you're fighting for something that affects a lot of workers in similar situations!

The Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD for 3 weeks straight, I tried it and got connected the same day. The representative was able to tell me exactly what was holding up my case and when I could expect resolution.

I'm dealing with the exact same situation right now - been in fact finding for 3 weeks after a straightforward layoff. It's incredibly frustrating when you're already stressed about finances and they just leave you hanging with no updates. The advice about checking with your former employer is solid - I just found out my old company never responded to Washington ESD's inquiry, which explains the delay. Also keeping detailed records of everything like someone mentioned earlier is really important. Hope you get through to someone soon and can get this resolved!

Final thought - this is exactly why we have unemployment insurance. To protect workers when employers don't follow the rules. You paid into this system through your work, you deserve the benefits.

This is unfortunately a common issue with smaller employers who either don't understand their obligations or try to cut corners. The good news is that Washington ESD has seen this before and has processes in place to handle it. You'll need to gather all your employment documentation - pay stubs, W-2s, bank deposits showing your paychecks, any employment contracts or offer letters. Even text messages or emails from your boss can help establish the employment relationship. The investigation process typically takes 4-6 weeks, but your benefits will be backdated to your original filing date once approved. Keep filing your weekly claims during the investigation period and don't let them make you feel like this is your fault - your employer had a legal obligation to pay unemployment taxes and their failure to do so doesn't disqualify you from benefits you've earned.

One last thought - university libraries sometimes have access to government databases that aren't easily searchable online. If you're affiliated with a school, that might be another avenue.

The Washington State Treasurer's office also publishes detailed financial reports that might have the unemployment spending data you're looking for. Their Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) includes expenditures by fund and program. Since unemployment benefits come from specific trust funds, those numbers should be clearly broken out. You can usually find several years of historical data in their reports section.