Can I apply for unemployment if my hours are reduced - Washington ESD eligibility?

That's a relief to hear! Do I need to wait until my hours are actually reduced to file, or can I file now?

You should file as soon as your hours are reduced and you start earning less. Don't wait - there's a waiting period anyway, so filing early helps.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved? I'm worried about the process taking forever.

Mine took about 3 weeks, but that was during a busy period. The hardest part was actually getting through to someone on the phone when I had questions.

Wait, I still have to look for other jobs even though I have a job? That seems weird.

Yeah, it's because you're underemployed. The system assumes you want full-time work, so you need to show you're actively seeking it. You can usually count looking for a second job or better hours at your current job.

The best times to call are usually early morning right when they open, or try calling during lunch hours when it might be less busy.

I actually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They basically wait on hold for you and call you back when they get someone on the line. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It saved me hours of frustration!

That sounds too good to be true... does it actually work? I'm so desperate at this point I'll try anything.

What counts as a job search activity? Is applying online enough?

Applying online counts, but you need variety. They want to see you're using different methods - networking, contacting employers directly, using WorkSource WA, etc. Keep detailed records of dates, company names, and what you did.

I know it's frustrating, but they have to verify everything to prevent fraud. The documentation requirements are there for a reason, even if it's a pain.

I get that, but when you're already struggling financially, jumping through endless hoops just makes everything worse.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. They handle the waiting for you so you don't waste your whole day on hold. Really worth checking out if you need to actually speak with someone.

I had the same problem. Try calling right at 8 AM when they open - that's when I finally got through.

It's based on your weekly earnings, not hours specifically. They have a formula where they subtract your weekly earnings from your benefit amount. So fewer hours = less pay = more benefits (up to your maximum).

That makes sense. So basically the less I earn, the more unemployment I can get?

Exactly, but there are limits. You can't earn more than a certain amount and still get benefits. I think it's around 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, but don't quote me on that.

How much were you able to get in partial benefits? I'm trying to figure out if it's worth the hassle.

I don't want to give specific numbers since everyone's situation is different, but it was enough to make a real difference. The application process isn't that bad once you get started.

Oh no, I didn't think about that. What if my employer says I could have picked up more hours at other locations?

That's why documentation is so important. If those other hours weren't offered to you specifically, or if they're at unreasonable distances/times, you should be fine. Keep records of everything.

Good point about not missing weeks. I assume I file online through the Washington ESD website?

yep, through their secure portal. make sure you report your gross earnings not net. they want to know what you made before taxes.

That's great to hear! I might need to try that if I run into issues with my claim.

Wish I had known about this service months ago. Would have saved me so much frustration trying to get through on the phone.

What's the difference? I thought standby was for people who are temporarily laid off?

Standby can also apply to reduced hours in some cases. It depends on whether Washington ESD expects your hours to return to normal soon. The job search requirements might be different too.

Ugh, a waiting week on top of already reduced pay. This is going to be tight.

I know it sucks, but at least the waiting week only applies once per benefit year. If your hours get cut again later, you won't have another waiting week.

Yeah, I'm definitely going to start looking for a second job. Can't rely on just these reduced hours.

That's smart. Having two part-time jobs might actually be better than one full-time job in terms of security these days.

So if I pick up an extra shift one week, I could lose my benefits for that week?

Exactly. You still need to report it, but you might not get any unemployment benefits for that specific week. It's all about the weekly calculation.

That's a good way to think about it. At least I can keep my job and get some help with the reduced income.

Exactly! Plus you're maintaining your work history and skills. It's really the best of both worlds when you're in this situation.

Good luck with your claim! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into any issues during the process.

You've got this! The partial benefits should really help bridge the gap while you figure out your next steps.

Good to know. I'll make sure to check my account regularly and respond to anything they need right away.

Smart approach. The faster you respond to their requests, the faster your claim gets processed. Don't let paperwork sit around!