Washington ESD unemployment - can part time collect unemployment benefits?

Yes, part-time workers can absolutely collect unemployment in Washington! The key is whether you earned enough wages during your base period. Washington ESD looks at your total earnings, not just whether you were full-time or part-time. You need to have earned at least $3,850 in your base period to qualify.

I was part-time too and got approved for UI benefits last year. Your weekly benefit amount will be based on your earnings though, so it might be lower than someone who worked full-time. But definitely apply - you paid into the system so you deserve it!

Your manager doesn't know what they're talking about. Part-time workers have the same rights to unemployment benefits as full-time workers in Washington. The only difference might be the weekly benefit amount you receive, which is calculated based on your previous earnings.

I tried calling Washington ESD to ask about part-time eligibility but couldn't get through. Their phone lines are always busy and I kept getting disconnected after waiting forever. How did you guys get your questions answered?

Just make sure you meet the work search requirements once you start collecting. You'll need to apply for jobs and keep a log of your activities. The requirements are the same whether you were part-time or full-time before.

The base period calculation is what matters most. Washington ESD uses your highest earning quarter and multiplies it by a certain factor to determine your weekly benefit amount. Being part-time doesn't disqualify you at all - it's all about your earnings history.

been there! I worked part time at a coffee shop and was worried about the same thing. Turns out I qualified no problem. The whole process was pretty straightforward once I actually applied online.

One thing to watch out for - if you find another part-time job while collecting benefits, you can still work and collect partial unemployment. You just need to report your earnings on your weekly claim. Washington has a partial benefit program.

Don't let anyone tell you that part-time workers don't deserve unemployment benefits. You paid into the system with every paycheck, so you have every right to collect when you need it. File that claim!

Update: I tried Claimyr and finally got through to an ESD agent about my part-time eligibility question. Confirmed that hours worked don't matter - only your earnings during the base period. Wish I'd known about this service earlier!

Also remember that when you file your weekly claims, you need to certify that you're able and available for work. This applies to part-time workers too - you need to be looking for work that matches your availability.

honestly the hardest part was figuring out all the terminology at first. adjudication, base period, weekly claims - it's a lot when you're new to the system. but once you understand it, it's not too bad

Your situation is exactly why the unemployment insurance system exists. Part-time workers contribute to the system and deserve protection when they lose their jobs through no fault of their own. Don't hesitate to file your claim.

Quick tip: when you apply, have your Social Security card, driver's license, and information about your employer ready. The online application will ask for specific details about your job and why you were laid off.

One last thing - make sure you file your claim as soon as possible. You can't get benefits for weeks before you file, even if you were eligible. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving payments.

To summarize for anyone else reading this: part-time workers absolutely can collect unemployment benefits in Washington state. Eligibility is based on earnings during your base period, not the number of hours you worked. File your claim online at esd.wa.gov and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Hope your claim gets approved quickly! The extra income will definitely help while you're looking for your next job. Keep us posted on how it goes.

This whole thread should be required reading for anyone who thinks part-time workers don't qualify for unemployment. So much misinformation out there, even from managers and HR departments.

good luck with everything! applying for unemployment can feel overwhelming at first but you've got this. and hey, at least you know you qualify now

Final reminder: after you file your initial claim, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to keep receiving benefits. Set a reminder on your phone so you don't forget - missed weeks can't be made up later.