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

That's a relief! Do I report the wages for the week I earned them or the week I get paid?

You report wages for the week you actually worked, not when you get paid. So if you work Monday-Friday, report those wages on your weekly claim for that same week.

Wait, can you explain that math? I'm getting confused about how much I'd actually receive.

Sure! Say your weekly benefit is $400 and you earn $200 in wages. They subtract $200 minus $5 = $195. Then 25% of $195 is about $49. So you'd lose $195 - $49 = $146 from your benefits. You'd get $400 - $146 = $254 in unemployment plus your $200 wages.

I had the same problem calling them last week. Found this service called Claimyr that actually gets you through to a real person at Washington ESD - claimyr.com. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Finally got my questions answered after weeks of trying.

Really? How does that work exactly? I'm desperate at this point.

They basically handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Oh no, I didn't know about the job search requirement! What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, networking contacts, job interviews, attending job fairs, or taking approved training courses. You need to document 3 different activities each week.

Actually if you're working part-time and actively looking for full-time work, those job applications definitely count toward your requirement. Just make sure to log everything properly.

How do I know if I'm working too many hours? Is there a limit?

It's not really about hours, it's about earnings. If your weekly wages are more than your weekly benefit amount plus the allowable deductions, you won't get benefits that week.

My part-time job is pretty flexible with scheduling. Should I mention that when I file?

Yes, definitely mention your availability in your initial claim. If they ask about your work schedule, be honest about your flexibility for other employment.

Also remember that 'suitable work' changes over time. After a certain period, you may need to accept lower-paying positions than your previous job.

I totally get the frustration! The system is definitely not user-friendly. But yes, you can get help - just be super honest about your wages and hours when you file weekly.

thanks, i guess ill just try filing and see what happens. hopefully i dont mess anything up

What kind of audit? That sounds scary.

Nothing scary if you're honest! They just cross-check your reported wages with what employers report. As long as you're accurate, no problems.

Do I report wages as gross or net?

Always report GROSS wages - before taxes and deductions. They need the full amount you earned.

What's standby status? My employer said they might have more hours available in a few weeks.

Standby means you have a definite return-to-work date within 4 weeks. You don't have to do job search activities, but you have to be available when they call you back.

Just make sure you get that return date in writing from your employer. Washington ESD will want documentation for standby status.

I would never try to hide it! I just want to make sure I do everything correctly.

Good! You'd be surprised how many people think they can get away with it. Honesty is always the best policy with unemployment benefits.

That would be amazing! I'm only making about $210 a week at this part-time job.

Yeah, with wages that low, you'll probably still get a decent unemployment payment. Just remember to keep looking for full-time work!

What happens if I forget to file one week?

You can usually file for previous weeks if you miss one, but it's better to just set a reminder and file every week on the same day.

Wait, you can work TWO part-time jobs and still get unemployment?

Yes! You just report ALL wages from ALL jobs. As long as your total weekly earnings don't exceed the benefit threshold, you can still get partial payments.

That's actually pretty smart - diversifying your income while still getting some unemployment support.

I didn't think about that. How many weeks do you get total?

Standard is 26 weeks in Washington, but it can vary based on economic conditions. Each week you file - even for partial benefits - counts toward that total.

I'll definitely check that out! Having an estimate would help me budget better.

It's not perfect but gives you a good ballpark. Just remember actual benefits depend on your specific wage base period.

I'm definitely going to look into that. These phone wait times are ridiculous.

Yeah, saved me probably 10+ hours of sitting on hold. The agent was able to walk me through exactly how to report my irregular part-time schedule.

Thank you everyone! This has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about filing now.

Good luck! Remember that partial unemployment is there to help bridge the gap while you're looking for better employment. Use it wisely.