Does Washington ESD unemployment cover part-time workers or just full-time?

That's a relief! How do I figure out my base period? Is that just the last few months I worked?

Your base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file now in 2025, it would typically be Q1 2024 through Q4 2024.

How long did it take you to finally talk to someone? I'm dreading having to call them.

Honestly like 3 weeks of trying every single day. I finally used this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual agent at claimyr.com - they have a video showing how it works https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Made the whole process so much easier.

What counts as 'suitable work'? Does it have to be the same type of job I had before?

Generally suitable work is jobs that match your skills and experience, pay at least 75% of your previous wages, and are within a reasonable commuting distance. It doesn't have to be identical to your previous job.

Just make sure you keep good records of your job search - Washington ESD can audit those anytime and if you can't prove you were actively looking, they'll make you pay back benefits.

Hour reductions can qualify you for partial unemployment benefits. You can work part-time and still collect some UI as long as your weekly earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5.

oh wow i had no idea about partial benefits. that could help me too since my hours got cut

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr when I needed to sort out my adjudication issue. Their service connects you directly to Washington ESD agents and you don't have to deal with the busy signals and getting hung up on.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money

It's worth checking out their site at claimyr.com - they focus on getting you the help you need rather than worrying about the cost. Way less stressful than calling yourself.

Great news! Make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week once you get approved. Missing even one can cause delays.

Good luck with your claim! The process can be slow but hang in there.

I didn't quit - my manager told me there just isn't enough work to give me regular hours anymore. That should count as a reduction in hours right?

Yes, that sounds like an involuntary reduction in hours which should qualify you. Just make sure you document that conversation with your manager in case Washington ESD asks for details.

What if I pick up occasional gig work while collecting? Do I need to report that too?

Yes, absolutely report all work and earnings including gig work, cash jobs, everything. Better to be overly honest than risk an overpayment later.

Seriously! I spent hours trying to get through last month just to ask a simple question about my claim status.

That's why services like Claimyr exist - to work around Washington ESD's terrible phone system. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person.

This is really helpful info. I'm in a similar situation and was worried I wouldn't qualify.

File your claim! The worst they can do is deny it, but you might be surprised and qualify for benefits you didn't know you could get.

So I won't get paid for the first week I file?

Correct - the first week is unpaid, then benefits start from week two if you're approved and continue filing weekly claims.

Good advice! I already pulled together my pay stubs. Should I scan them or just have them ready?

Have them ready but you probably won't need to upload them unless Washington ESD specifically requests documentation during adjudication.