Washington ESD disqualified my unemployment benefits - options if I was disqualified?

Thank you! I see the appeal form but it's pretty confusing. Do I need to include documentation about my hours being cut?

Yes, gather any texts, emails, or schedules showing your hours were reduced. Pay stubs comparing before and after hours are especially helpful.

What's constructive dismissal? Is that different from just quitting?

Constructive dismissal is when working conditions become so unreasonable that a reasonable person would quit. Drastically cutting hours can qualify as this.

I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

Is that legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

Yeah it's real, they basically handle the waiting and calling back when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold all day.

How many levels of appeals did you have to go through? This is so stressful.

I had to go to a hearing with an administrative law judge. It was scary but the judge actually listened to my evidence, unlike the initial reviewer.

I was working 35-40 hours before and they cut me to 8-10 hours. That's definitely more than 25% reduction!

wow that's a huge cut, no wonder you had to quit. that's not sustainable at all

Really? I thought I couldn't file claims if I was disqualified.

Nope, you should keep filing. The system will show $0 payments but it preserves your claim weeks for backpay if you win.

This is correct advice. Always continue filing weekly claims during an appeal process.

Did you need a lawyer for the hearing?

no but i watched some youtube videos about unemployment hearings to prepare. some people do get lawyers though

I didn't know that was an option! Can you get partial benefits if you're still working some hours?

Yes, Washington state allows partial unemployment if your hours are significantly reduced. But at 8-10 hours per week, quitting might have been the better choice anyway.

How much did it cost?

It's worth it compared to wasting entire days trying to call. The peace of mind alone is valuable.

That's encouraging to hear. I was starting to think I had no chance.

dont give up! the system is designed to discourage people but you have legitimate reasons

Should I mention that I looked for other jobs before quitting?

Absolutely! Showing you tried to find alternative employment before quitting strengthens your case for good cause.

So true! They act like unemployment benefits are charity instead of insurance we all paid into.

The disqualification letter definitely made me feel that way. Like I did something wrong by leaving a job that wasn't sustainable.

Good point, I'll make sure to keep copies of everything.

also send everything certified mail so you have proof they received it

I'm definitely not waiting. Filing the appeal tomorrow morning.

smart move, time is not on your side with these appeals

How many levels of appeals are there?

Three levels: initial determination, administrative law judge hearing, then Board of Appeals review. Most cases get resolved at the ALJ level.

Thank you for all the encouragement everyone! Feeling much more confident about appealing now.

keep us updated on how it goes!

That's exactly what I'm hoping to prove. A 75% hour reduction isn't sustainable for anyone.

definitely not, especially with gas and commute costs making those few hours barely worthwhile

I do have a child in daycare, and the reduced hours actually made it harder to afford childcare while working so little.

Perfect example! That's definitely relevant to include in your appeal documentation.