Washington ESD - unemployment is defined as what exactly for eligibility?

That's helpful! So even though I'm still working some hours, I could still be considered unemployed under their definition?

Exactly. Partial unemployment is still unemployment in Washington ESD's eyes as long as you meet the other eligibility requirements.

Did you have to do job searches even though you were still working part-time?

Yes, you still need to complete job search activities each week you claim benefits, even with partial unemployment.

Never heard of that service before. Did it actually work to get you through to someone at Washington ESD?

Yeah, it was surprisingly effective. Got connected within like 20 minutes instead of the usual hours of busy signals.

Interesting, I might have to try that. I've been trying to reach them for weeks about my claim status.

What about if someone quits their job? Are they considered unemployed then?

Generally no, unless you quit for good cause. Voluntary separation usually disqualifies you from benefits.

I know it's frustrating, but the definitions have to cover a lot of different employment situations. That's why they seem complicated.

i guess but it shouldn't take a law degree to figure out if you qualify for unemployment

Good point. I assume being available means I can't turn down suitable job offers either?

Correct. Refusing suitable work without good cause can disqualify you from benefits.

The definition itself doesn't change, but interpretation of individual situations can vary between agents unfortunately.

That's the problem though - shouldn't there be consistency in how they apply the rules?

My employer definitely cut my hours due to slow business, so that should count as involuntary.

Exactly. That's a textbook case of partial unemployment through no fault of your own.

I worked full-time for over two years before the hour cuts, so I should be good on that front.

Sounds like you'll meet both the unemployment definition and monetary requirements then.

How much does that service cost? I'm already tight on money with reduced hours.

I found it worth it considering the time it saved me, but you can check their website for current info.

I tried looking for that but the Washington ESD website is so hard to navigate. Do you have a direct link?

Check the employer resources section on their site - they usually have the detailed definitions there.

What counts as 'no fault' though? Like if you get fired for performance issues?

That would likely be considered misconduct and could disqualify you. 'No fault' usually means layoffs, hour reductions, company closures, etc.

Have you been able to get your weekly claims processed? Sometimes the initial confusion clears up once you're in the system.

yeah my claims go through fine, just never fully understood all the technical definitions

I haven't registered with WorkSource yet. Is that required even for partial unemployment?

Yes, registration is typically required for all claimants unless you have an approved exemption.

That's a helpful way to think about it. I definitely want to work full-time again but my employer doesn't have the hours available.

Perfect example of partial unemployment. You should definitely file a claim.

One hour reduction? That seems like it would hardly be worth the hassle of filing.

Well, in my case it was more significant, but the agent said technically even small reductions can qualify you depending on your benefit amount.

That's exactly what I needed to hear. I can answer yes to all three of those questions.

Then you should definitely file your claim. Don't wait too long since there can be delays in processing.

Good summary. Those three questions really capture the essence of Washington ESD's unemployment definition.

Yeah, I do some freelance work on the side. Does that affect my unemployment status?

You'll need to report all earnings, but it doesn't necessarily disqualify you from partial benefits as long as you're still seeking regular employment.

Glad we could help! The important thing is that you understand your situation qualifies. Don't hesitate to file.

Agreed, this thread was super helpful. Going to start my claim application today.