How many hours do you need to work to get unemployment in Washington?

Oh that makes more sense! So it's wage-based not hour-based. I was making $18/hour so I think I might qualify then.

Yeah the wage requirements change every year too. Make sure you're looking at current 2025 numbers when you calculate.

What does 'able and available' actually mean? I can work but I have some scheduling restrictions because of my kids.

As long as you're available for a reasonable amount of work during normal business hours, you should be fine. They're pretty understanding about childcare issues.

How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you or something?

They basically handle the calling and waiting part, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

My hours just got reduced dramatically, I didn't quit or get fired. Does that count as losing my job?

Reduction in hours can qualify you for partial unemployment benefits. You'd need to file and they'll determine your weekly benefit amount based on the hours you're still working.

I'm in a similar situation - went from 40 hours to 15 hours per week. Still working on getting my partial claim sorted out.

What's standby status? My employer said they might bring me back to full hours eventually.

Standby means your employer expects to recall you within a specific timeframe. If you qualify for standby, you don't have to do the job search requirement.

The Washington ESD website has a benefits calculator that can help you estimate if you qualify and what your weekly benefit might be. That might give you a clearer picture.

Did you have trouble getting approved? I'm worried they'll find some reason to deny me.

As long as you meet the wage requirements and lost work through no fault of your own, you should be fine. The process takes time but it's pretty straightforward.

How long was your claim in adjudication? Mine's been pending for 2 weeks now.

Mine was about 3 weeks. Once I got through to an agent they were able to explain what documents they needed to finish processing it.

That's good to know! So I might be able to keep working my reduced hours and still get some help.

Exactly. You just have to report your earnings when you file your weekly claims. They'll adjust your benefit amount accordingly.

What federal programs? I thought most of the pandemic stuff ended.

Most of the pandemic programs did end, but there might still be some training or work programs available. Best to ask Washington ESD directly about what's current.

That's encouraging! Did you have any issues with the application process?

Not really, just had to provide some employment verification. The hardest part was actually getting through to ask questions when I got confused about something.

Good point! I'll start the application today then. Better to find out sooner rather than later.

Yeah definitely don't wait. Even if there are issues with your claim, at least you'll have the filing date established.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. Takes all the frustration out of trying to reach them.

I've had better luck calling right when they open at 8am or during lunch hours around noon. Still takes forever though.

Perfect, I'll check that out. Thanks for all the help everyone!

No problem! The whole system seems overwhelming at first but once you get started it's not too bad.

Good reminder. I have most of my recent pay stubs but I should probably gather everything together before I apply.

Yeah definitely. I had to provide employment verification for my last few jobs when I applied. Having everything organized made it much easier.