Can you collect unemployment if you are not getting enough hours at Washington ESD?

Oh wow, I had no idea this was even possible! Do I apply the same way as regular unemployment?

Yes, same application process through the Washington ESD website. Just make sure to report all your hours and earnings accurately each week.

This is so frustrating! I've been trying to call for weeks about my partial claim and can never get through.

I actually found this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual Washington ESD agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

Really? I'll check that out, I'm desperate at this point!

That's not great advice - you should understand the requirements first to avoid any issues with your claim.

idk it worked for me when my hours got cut

This is super helpful! So I should definitely apply then since I'm only making about $240 a week now.

Wait, do you have to actively look for work if you're on partial unemployment? I'm confused about the job search requirements.

Yes, you still need to meet job search requirements - 3 job search activities per week in Washington unless you're on standby with your current employer.

Oh no, that's exactly what I'm worried about happening. How long are you supposed to wait?

That's another situation where Claimyr really helped me. When my claim was stuck, I used their service to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD who could look at my account and explain the delay.

I'm so frustrated I might try anything at this point.

Your employer will receive notice that you've filed a claim, but this is normal and legal. You're protected from retaliation for filing unemployment benefits.

Ok that makes me feel better. I really need the extra money to survive.

Yes, you report combined earnings from both jobs. As long as your total weekly earnings are less than your benefit amount plus $5, you may qualify for partial benefits.

Good to know, I'll definitely apply then.

What's the difference exactly? My manager said the hour cuts might be permanent.

If it's permanent reduction, you're on regular partial UI and need to do job searches. If temporary with return date, you might be on standby status and wouldn't need to search for work.

Set a reminder on your phone for the same day each week. Missing a weekly claim can cause payment delays.

Good luck! And remember, if you run into any issues or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, that Claimyr service I mentioned really does work for getting through their phone system.

I'll keep that in mind, thank you so much for all the help!

Good to know there are success stories! Makes me feel more confident about applying.

Do you report gross or net earnings?

Gross earnings before taxes are taken out.

Seriously?? I'm going to try this right now!

That's amazing! Good to know there's a way to actually talk to someone if needed.

If everything is straightforward, usually 2-3 weeks. But if there are any issues or it goes to adjudication, it can take much longer.

Mine took about 10 days but that was before all the recent backlogs.

Definitely apply! Restaurant workers often qualify since hour cuts are so common in that industry.

Great tip! I have all my old pay stubs showing when I was getting more hours.

I should probably start keeping better records of my schedule changes.

That's so encouraging to hear! How much of a difference did it make financially?

Huge difference! Between my reduced wages and the partial benefits, I'm almost back to what I was making before the hour cuts.

So glad you got answers! I'm filing my application this weekend.

See, Claimyr really does work! Worth it to get actual answers instead of guessing.

Oh good point, I wouldn't have thought of that!

Yeah I learned that the hard way my first year on unemployment. You can elect to have taxes taken out when you file your weekly claims.

You're welcome! Hope everything works out for you.

Good luck with your application! And remember, help is available if you need to contact Washington ESD.

Wish I had known this sooner! I struggled for months before finding out about partial benefits.

Same here! This thread has been a lifesaver.