Does part time qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

That's helpful, thanks! Do you know what the minimum wage requirements are? I'm worried I didn't make enough in total to qualify.

For 2025, you need at least $5,265 in your base year (first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed quarters before you file). Washington ESD will calculate this automatically when you apply.

Did you have any trouble getting through to Washington ESD to file your claim? I've heard the phone lines are always busy.

Oh man, yes. I probably called 200 times over two weeks before I got through. It was incredibly frustrating.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD, I actually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. It was a lifesaver when I needed to talk to someone about my claim status.

Good point, I'll try the online application first. Thanks!

Sometimes the online system doesn't work properly though, especially if you have a complicated work history. I had to call to get my part-time situation sorted out.

Yikes, that sounds awful. I'll make sure to report everything accurately.

This is why it's so important to keep detailed records of all your earnings, even small amounts. Washington ESD can cross-reference with employer reports.

Exactly. I wish someone had warned me about this earlier. The appeals process is taking forever too.

I had no idea about the job search requirements! That's really important to know.

Yeah, failing to meet job search requirements can disqualify you from benefits. Make sure you understand all the rules before you start collecting.

The WorkSourceWA system for logging job searches is actually pretty easy to use once you get the hang of it. Just don't forget to log your activities each week.

That's encouraging to hear! Did you have any issues during the application process?

The only issue I had was getting confused about which weeks to report my earnings for. Make sure you understand the weekly claim filing process before you start.

Have you tried reaching out through their online messaging system? Sometimes that works better than calling.

I've tried everything. Online messages, phone calls, even went to the WorkSource office. Nothing helps.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. When you're stuck like this, sometimes you need help getting through to an actual person who can look at your specific case.

That's good to know. I'm probably earning around $150-200 per week with my reduced hours, so hopefully that won't affect the benefits too much.

The exact formula changes periodically, but generally you can earn a small amount without it affecting your benefits, then above that threshold it's reduced dollar for dollar or something similar.

I hadn't thought about that. My employer seems pretty understanding about the situation, but I guess you never know.

Most employers are reasonable, but some will contest any claim automatically. Just be prepared for that possibility.

You're still subject to the same time limits as regular unemployment - typically 26 weeks in Washington, though it can vary based on economic conditions and your work history.

Thanks! I was wondering about that since my hours have been reduced for months now.

Good reminder about filing on time. What day of the week do you usually file?

i always file on sundays, that way i dont forget. you can file anytime during your filing week but i like to get it done early

I hear you, but once you get through the initial setup it's actually not too bad. The weekly filing process is pretty straightforward.

Maybe, but getting to that point is the problem. Too many hoops to jump through.

That's a good point. I'll start the application process this weekend. Thanks for all the advice everyone!

Good luck! Feel free to ask if you run into any issues during the process.

Great advice. I've been keeping my pay stubs but I should probably start a more organized system.

A simple spreadsheet with dates, hours worked, and gross pay for each week is usually sufficient. Just something you can reference if needed.

Yes, you need to report any changes in your work situation immediately. If your hours increase significantly, it could affect your benefit eligibility.

Thanks, that's what I figured. Better to over-report than under-report with Washington ESD.