Can you collect unemployment for reduced hours in Washington ESD?

That's such a relief to hear! Do I file the same way as regular unemployment or is there a different process?

Same application process, but you'll report your reduced earnings each week when you file your weekly claim. Washington ESD will calculate your partial benefit amount.

How much do they subtract? Like if I earn $400 in a week, how much would that reduce my benefits?

Washington ESD has a formula where they subtract 75% of your earnings from your weekly benefit amount. So if your weekly benefit is $500 and you earn $400, you'd get $200 in benefits ($500 - 300 = $200).

I had the same problem until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an actual person. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Wait, I have to look for other jobs while I'm still employed? That seems weird.

Yes, because you're considered underemployed. You need to show you're actively seeking full-time work to replace the lost income.

This is confusing. What if my current employer finds out I'm job searching?

Good point. Should I get something in writing from my employer about the hour reduction?

If possible, yes. An email or memo stating the hours were reduced due to business conditions would be helpful if Washington ESD questions your claim.

How long did it take to get approved? I'm worried about the gap between filing and getting benefits.

took about 2 weeks for my first payment after filing. make sure you file your weekly claims every week even if you haven't heard anything yet

How many weeks is that in Washington?

Usually 26 weeks, but it depends on your work history and how much you've earned. The Washington ESD website has a calculator to estimate your benefit amount and duration.

This is so important. I know someone who got hit with a huge overpayment bill because they weren't reporting their part-time work correctly.

Yikes, I definitely don't want that. I'll make sure to report everything accurately.

Thanks! I'll start the application tonight. Feeling much more confident about this now.

Good luck! The online system is pretty user-friendly once you get started.

What kind of proof do they want? Like applications I've submitted?

Yes, keep records of where you applied, when you applied, and any interviews or contact from employers. Washington ESD can audit your job search log.

That's a good question. I think it depends on whether the childcare issue is considered 'good cause' by Washington ESD standards.

You'd probably need to talk to an ESD agent about that specific situation. Every case is different.

I keep seeing Claimyr mentioned. Might have to try it if I run into issues with my application.

It's worth it just for the peace of mind. Being able to talk to an actual person at ESD makes such a difference.

Yeah, I'm still not 100% clear on how they calculate the benefit reduction. Guess I'll figure it out as I go.

The customer service reps can explain it better than the website does. That's where services like Claimyr come in handy.

Good point. I'll talk to my manager about it tomorrow. Maybe they'll be understanding about the situation.

That gives me hope! Sounds like it's manageable once you get into the routine.

Exactly. The first few weeks are the hardest while you're figuring everything out, but then it becomes routine.

Definitely doing that. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel so much better about this situation now.