Can part time employees file for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD?

That's a relief! So I can file even though I'm still working some hours? How do I prove it's because of lack of work and not my choice?

When you file your initial claim, there's a section where you explain the reason for unemployment. Just be honest that your employer reduced your hours due to business needs. Washington ESD might contact your employer to verify, but that's normal.

Have you tried using Claimyr? I found out about it last month when I was having the same problem getting through to Washington ESD. It's a service that helps you actually reach an agent - you can check it out at claimyr.com. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work? I'm so frustrated with trying to call.

Yeah it worked for me! I was able to get through and talk to someone about my partial claim situation. Way better than spending hours on hold.

What if I only started working 8 months ago? Will that be enough earnings to qualify?

Probably yes, but it depends on how much you were making. Washington ESD needs you to have earned at least $1,000 in your base period. With 25-30 hours a week for 8 months, you should easily meet that threshold.

You can absolutely look for other work! In fact, Washington ESD requires you to be actively searching for work even on partial unemployment. You still need to log your job search activities each week.

That's good to know. I was worried I'd be stuck with these reduced hours forever if I filed for UI.

How much is too much? Like what's the cutoff?

It varies based on your benefit amount, but generally if you earn more than about 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you won't get anything that week. But you should still report all earnings honestly.

How long did it take to get approved? I'm worried about the timing since I need the money soon.

Mine took about 3 weeks, but that was during a busy time. Could be faster now. The important thing is to file as soon as possible since benefits don't start until you file your claim.

The information is there, but it's buried in their handbook. Look for the section on 'partial unemployment' or 'working while claiming benefits.

I tried reading that but it's like trying to understand legal documents. Wish they'd write it in plain English.

What counts as a work search activity? Just applying for jobs online?

Applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, even some types of training. You need 3 activities per week usually. Check the WorkSourceWA website for approved activities.

That's why services like Claimyr are so helpful. I used them when I had questions about my claim and actually got to talk to a real person at Washington ESD. Saved me so much frustration.

I'll have to remember that if I ever need to call them. The regular phone system is definitely broken.

Thanks everyone! This has been really helpful. I'm going to file this weekend.

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims every week even if you think you won't get paid. It keeps your claim active.

That's a good point. I hadn't thought about talking to them about it directly.

That gives me hope! I was worried it would be too complicated or not worth the hassle.

It's definitely worth it if your hours got cut significantly. Every little bit helps with bills and expenses.

Really? My cousin filed in December and it still took a month to get her first payment.

Hmm, maybe it depends on the situation. Mine was pretty straightforward so that might be why it was faster.

I don't have any other income, just the one part-time job. But good to know for the future.

Thanks! I'm convinced now. Going to file this weekend for sure.

Smart move. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start getting help with the reduced income.

I bookmarked their website just in case. Hopefully I won't need it but good to have as backup.