Can you only get unemployment if you are fired - Washington ESD eligibility question

Really? That's such a relief! Do I need to report the few hours I'm still working when I file my weekly claims?

Yes you absolutely have to report any hours worked and wages earned on your weekly claims. Washington ESD will calculate your partial benefit amount based on what you earn.

what counts as 'good cause' for quitting? asking for a friend lol

Good cause includes things like unsafe working conditions, harassment, significant changes to your job duties or schedule, or health issues that make continuing work impossible. Washington ESD reviews each case individually.

The hours reduction definitely wasn't my choice - they just cut everyone's shifts because business is slow.

How many jobs do you have to apply for each week? I've heard different numbers.

It's 3 job search activities per week minimum. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Just keep good records in case they audit your claim.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com. They help you get through to Washington ESD agents automatically. There's even a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Game changer for me!

How do you prove the unsafe conditions? Did you have to provide documentation?

I had photos and emails to my supervisor about the safety issues. Washington ESD wanted to see that I tried to resolve it with my employer first before quitting.

The benefit amounts are actually calculated differently. Full unemployment vs partial unemployment have different formulas based on your earnings history and current wages.

Oh okay that makes more sense then. Still wish Washington ESD was clearer about all the rules upfront.

Nope, partial unemployment is definitely a thing in Washington. As long as your hours or wages were reduced through no fault of your own, you should apply. The worst they can do is say no.

thanks, gonna apply today then. been putting it off thinking i didn't qualify

Exactly right. Being fired for misconduct, like repeated tardiness, policy violations, or insubordination typically disqualifies you from benefits. But being laid off or fired for performance issues usually doesn't.

Yeah I learned that the hard way. Had to wait 6 months before I could reapply.

Oh no, I should have applied last month when this started happening. Can I still get benefits going forward though?

Yes, you can still apply now! Benefits start from when you file your claim, not when the problem started. Just don't wait any longer.

I mean the info is there on the Washington ESD website if you dig for it. But yeah it could be presented better for sure.

Fair point. I just get frustrated when people are struggling and can't get straight answers about their own benefits.

You still need to meet the job search requirements unless you're on approved standby with your current employer. Most people with reduced hours still have to look for other work opportunities.

Got it, thanks. Guess I better start applying to other places too then.

That's reassuring to hear from someone who's seen it from the employer side. Makes me feel less worried about applying.

Yeah don't worry about it. As long as the hour reduction wasn't disciplinary, you should be fine. We even had to provide documentation to Washington ESD confirming the cuts were business-related.

Wait really? I do freelance work and thought contractors couldn't get unemployment benefits.

Depends on how you were classified and if you paid into the system. Some contractors are eligible, some aren't. Worth checking with Washington ESD if you're unsure.

How long did the appeal process take? In case I need to go that route.

About 6 weeks total, but I kept filing weekly claims during the appeal so I got back pay when I won. Don't stop filing even if you're appealing.

Good luck! The application process is pretty straightforward online. Just have your employment history and pay stubs ready.

Thanks! Already gathering up my paperwork.

I'm skeptical of services like that but honestly the phone situation is so bad I might try it.

I was skeptical too but it worked exactly like they showed in their demo video. Worth it when you need actual answers from a real person.

Thank you everyone for all the help! I'm definitely applying today. Feel so much better knowing I might actually qualify.

You're welcome! Hope everything works out for you. The worst they can do is say no, but based on what you described you should be approved.