Do you have to be full time to get unemployment benefits in Washington?

That's a relief! Do you know what the minimum earnings requirement is?

For 2025, you need at least $3,800 in wages during your base period, with at least $1,500 in your highest quarter. Since you worked two jobs, your combined wages should count.

How did you handle the job search requirements? I'm not sure if I need to look for full-time work or if part-time is okay.

You can look for part-time work but you have to be available for full-time if it's offered. I documented both types of applications in my job search log.

Never heard of that service. Does it actually work? I've been trying to call ESD for weeks.

Yeah it worked for me. Way better than sitting on hold for hours or getting hung up on. They handle all the waiting and transfer you when they get someone on the line.

What if I can only work certain hours because of childcare? Would that disqualify me?

Not necessarily. You can have restrictions on your availability as long as they don't unreasonably limit your job opportunities. Document your availability clearly when you file.

Did you have any trouble with the application process? I'm worried about messing something up.

nah it was pretty straightforward. just take your time filling it out and double check everything before submitting

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. Saved me so much time and frustration compared to calling myself.

I might have to try that. This is ridiculous that you can't get through to your own state agency.

What if you worked in multiple states? Do wages from other states count?

Washington can combine wages from other states if needed. You'd file an interstate claim and they coordinate with the other state's unemployment agency.

Not exactly. You need to be available for suitable work based on your skills and experience. If you have a history of part-time work, part-time positions can be considered suitable.

Oh okay, that makes more sense. I was worried I'd have to take any full-time job offered even if it didn't fit my situation.

Six weeks for adjudication is brutal. Did you ever find out what the holdup was?

They never really explained it. I think they just needed to verify my wages from both employers. Could have saved weeks if someone had just told me what documents to send.

Your weekly benefit amount is based on your wages during the base period, not whether you worked full or part-time. Lower wages mean lower benefits, but you still get the same calculation method.

That's what I figured. Better than nothing though, especially with one job completely gone.

I don't think they judge you for working part-time. Lots of people work multiple part-time jobs by choice or necessity. As long as you meet the requirements, you should be fine.

Thanks, that's reassuring. I guess I'm just anxious about the whole process.

Is that service legit? Seems too good to be true that someone else can call for you.

Yeah it's real. They don't access your account or anything, just handle the calling and waiting part. Once they get someone on the line, you take over the conversation.

Wait, you can get partial unemployment if your hours get cut? I didn't know that was a thing.

Yep, if your hours or wages are reduced through no fault of your own, you can file for partial benefits. Really helpful when employers cut hours instead of laying people off.

Exactly. The system is designed to help people who lose work, not just people who lose full-time jobs.

Right, unemployment insurance is about replacing lost wages, whatever the source.

Good point. I had a brief stint at a third job during that time period. Should I include that even though it was only for a few weeks?

Yes, include everything. It's better to over-report than miss something and have to correct it later.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info. I feel much more confident about filing my claim now.

Good luck with your application! Don't hesitate to reach out if you run into any issues.