Can I get Washington ESD unemployment if my hours are reduced at work?

Yes, you can definitely file for partial unemployment benefits in Washington! When your hours get cut significantly like that, you qualify for what's called 'underemployment' benefits. You'll need to report your reduced earnings when you file your weekly claim, and Washington ESD will calculate a partial benefit amount.

I went through this exact situation last year when my restaurant cut everyone's shifts. The key thing is Washington ESD looks at your weekly earnings, not just whether you're employed or not. If you're earning significantly less than your weekly benefit amount would be, you can get partial benefits to make up some of the difference.

Just heads up - you'll still need to meet the job search requirements even while working reduced hours. Washington ESD requires you to make job contacts each week unless you qualify for an exemption. Since you're underemployed, you'll likely need to show you're actively looking for additional work.

I tried calling Washington ESD about this same issue last month and spent hours on hold without getting through. If you need to talk to someone about your specific situation, I recently discovered this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually reach a real person at Washington ESD. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration.

ugh the phone system is THE WORST. I've been calling for weeks about my claim and either get disconnected or told to call back later. Sometimes I wonder if they even want to help people.

One thing to keep in mind - when you file your weekly claims, you need to report ALL your earnings for that week, including tips if you get them. Washington ESD will reduce your benefit amount based on what you earned, but there's usually still some benefit left over if your hours are cut as much as yours were.

Make sure you understand the waiting week requirement too. In Washington, there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start, even for partial unemployment. So don't expect payment immediately after filing.

I'm in a similar boat - went from full time to maybe 12 hours a week. Filed for partial benefits two weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back. Anyone know how long it takes for them to process these claims?

Don't forget that if your employer offers you additional hours or shifts, you generally have to accept them or it could affect your benefits. Washington ESD considers refusing available work as a potential disqualification issue.

Quick question - if I get a second part-time job while my main job has reduced hours, do I still qualify for partial benefits?

Has anyone had issues with their employer disputing their unemployment claim? I'm worried my boss might not like me filing for benefits while still working there part-time.

The online application is pretty straightforward. Make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months ready before you start. Also helps to have your most recent pay stub to verify your earnings.

Another option to consider - if you can't get through to Washington ESD by phone and need to speak with someone urgently, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually works. I used it last week when I had questions about my job search requirements while working reduced hours.

One more tip - keep detailed records of your work hours and pay for each week. If Washington ESD ever audits your claim or asks for verification, you'll need to provide documentation showing your reduced earnings.

I've been dealing with reduced hours for months now and the partial unemployment benefits have been a lifesaver. Don't hesitate to apply - you've earned these benefits through your previous work and tax contributions.

File your claim ASAP. In Washington, benefits are calculated from the week you file, not from when your hours were reduced. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving payments.