Can part timers get unemployment in Washington ESD?

Yes, part-time workers can definitely qualify for unemployment in Washington! The key is that you need to have earned enough wages during your base period. Since you've been working 25-30 hours a week for 8 months, you should have enough work history. When your hours get cut significantly like that, it's called 'underemployment' and you can file a claim.

same thing happened to me last year. i was working part time at a restaurant and they cut my hours from 30 to like 8 hours a week. filed with washington esd and got approved pretty quick

The important thing to understand is that Washington ESD calculates your weekly benefit amount based on your highest-earning quarter during your base period. Since you've been working consistently for 8 months, you should meet the monetary requirements. When you file, you'll need to report your reduced hours each week and any wages you earn from those 10 hours.

I've been trying to get through to Washington ESD for weeks about a similar situation but can never reach anyone on the phone. The wait times are insane and I keep getting disconnected. Has anyone found a better way to contact them?

WAIT hold up... I thought you had to be completely unemployed to get benefits??? This is news to me. I've been struggling with reduced hours for months and never knew I could apply!

Make sure you're available for full-time work when you file. Washington ESD requires that you be able and available for work, and actively seeking employment. Even though you're working part-time, you need to show you're looking for more hours or a better job.

been there done that. filed when my hours got cut at the grocery store. took about 2 weeks to get approved and start getting payments. not gonna lie, the extra money made a huge difference

One thing to keep in mind is that your employer might fight your claim. Some employers don't like it when part-time workers file for unemployment, even though it's perfectly legal. Don't let that discourage you from filing.

I work part time too and was wondering the same thing. My boss keeps threatening to cut everyone's hours because business is slow. Good to know I have options if it happens.

The Washington ESD website has a lot of good information about partial unemployment benefits. There's a whole section explaining how it works for people who are still working but with reduced hours. I'd recommend reading through it before you file.

Just want to add that you should file your weekly claims every week even if you work some hours. Don't skip weeks thinking you won't get anything - let Washington ESD calculate it for you.

This thread is so helpful! I'm in a similar boat - working part-time at a coffee shop and they just cut everyone's hours in half. I was freaking out about how I'm going to pay rent next month.

Quick tip - when you file your weekly claims, be super accurate about your hours and wages. Washington ESD will verify with your employer, so any discrepancies could cause delays or issues with your claim.

The system is set up to help people in exactly your situation. Part-time workers whose hours get cut through no fault of their own absolutely deserve unemployment benefits. Don't feel guilty about filing - you've been paying into the system through your paychecks.

heads up - when you file your first claim it might take a week or two to get processed. dont panic if you dont hear back right away. they're pretty backed up but they'll get to it

I tried calling Washington ESD last month about part-time benefits and it was impossible to get through. Finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and got connected to an agent who explained everything perfectly. Definitely worth it if you need to talk to someone directly.

Make sure you understand the difference between 'able and available' vs 'suitable work' requirements. You need to be available for full-time work, but you can turn down jobs that pay significantly less than your previous wages or are in a completely different field.

I've been on partial unemployment for 3 months now and it's been a lifesaver. My restaurant job went from 35 hours to 15 hours a week and the UI benefits help bridge the gap while I look for something better.

Another thing - if your employer tries to schedule you for additional hours after you file, you should generally accept them. Turning down available hours from your current employer could affect your benefits.

Good luck with your claim! The hardest part is just getting started. Once you file and get into the routine of weekly claims, it becomes pretty routine. And don't hesitate to ask questions if you get confused about anything.