Can you file for unemployment while working part-time in Washington ESD?

Oh wow, I had no idea this was even possible! Do I need to wait until my hours get cut more or can I apply now?

You can apply now as long as your hours have been significantly reduced. The key is that your weekly earnings need to be less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5.

What kind of problems? Like do they make you pay it back?

Yeah, if they find unreported income they can hit you with an overpayment notice and you'll have to pay back everything plus penalties. Always better to over-report than under-report.

Is that legit? I'm always skeptical of services that claim to help with government stuff.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked for me. They basically handle the calling and waiting so you don't have to sit on hold for hours. Made the whole process way less stressful.

I used them too when I couldn't get through about my adjudication issue. Definitely saved me a ton of time and frustration.

How many job searches do I need to do per week for partial unemployment?

It's usually 3 job search activities per week, same as regular unemployment. But definitely verify this when you file because the requirements can change.

I get the frustration, but the requirement makes sense from their perspective. Partial benefits are meant to be temporary while you find full-time work or your hours get restored.

yeah i guess that makes sense. still feels weird applying for jobs when i already have one though

Can you explain the formula? I want to know what to expect.

It's complicated but basically they take your weekly benefit amount, subtract your gross earnings minus $5, and that's your partial payment. So if your weekly benefit is $400 and you earn $200, you'd get $205 in partial benefits.

That's close but not exactly right. The actual formula is more complex and depends on your earnings. Best to use the calculator on the Washington ESD website to get an accurate estimate.

What happens if I accidentally report the wrong amount one week?

You can usually correct it by calling them or through the website, but it's better to be accurate the first time. Keep good records of your hours and pay stubs.

I mean, I get your frustration but there has to be some oversight to prevent fraud. The rules exist for a reason.

Yeah but meanwhile people are struggling to pay rent while they figure out the bureaucracy. The system should work for people, not against them.

Wait, should I tell my boss I'm filing? I don't want to make things worse.

You're not required to tell them, but Washington ESD will contact your employer to verify your employment and hours. They'll find out eventually.

Most employers understand that partial unemployment exists for exactly this situation. Don't stress about it too much.

Yes, you can still file for partial benefits if your combined income from multiple jobs is below your weekly benefit amount. You just need to report earnings from all sources.

Thanks! That's good to know. The gig economy makes everything more complicated.

Yeah I mentioned it earlier - it definitely works. Saved me hours of calling and getting hung up on. Worth it just for the peace of mind.

I'm going to check it out. I've wasted so much time trying to get through to them on my own.

How long does it usually take to get approved for partial benefits?

If everything goes smoothly, maybe 2-3 weeks. But if there are any issues or they need to verify information with your employer, it can take longer.

Good point! I should probably start keeping better track of my hours and pay.

Definitely. Take photos of your schedule, save email communications, keep all pay stubs. It might seem like overkill but it can save you major headaches later.

What if my hours go up and down from week to week? Do I report each week differently?

Yes, you report your actual hours and earnings each week. That's why the weekly claim asks for specific information about that particular week.

Glad we could help! Good luck with your claim and don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions.

Same here! I feel so much more informed now. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to explain everything.

Yeah I'm definitely going to need to talk to someone at ESD about my specific situation. Thanks for the reminder about Claimyr.

Exactly! The general advice here is helpful but every case has unique factors that need individual attention.

That's good advice. I'll keep that in mind if I start receiving benefits.

Yeah, overpayment notices are no joke. I always kept my benefit payments in a separate account for the first few months just in case.

Good luck! It's nice to know we're not alone in dealing with this stuff.

That's what these forums are for - helping each other navigate the system. Hope it works out for both of you!

Thanks for saying that. I was kind of feeling weird about filing while still employed, but you're right - this is exactly what the system is designed for.

Exactly! Partial unemployment benefits exist because lawmakers recognized that people sometimes need help even when they're working. It's not charity, it's a safety net you've earned.