What is the meaning of unemployment when filing Washington ESD claims?

That helps! So if I'm working like 15 hours a week but could work 40, that might count as partial unemployment?

Exactly. You'd report your earnings on your weekly claim and Washington ESD calculates if you're eligible for partial benefits. Just make sure you're still actively job searching for full-time work.

What counts as 'actively seeking work'? I've been applying to jobs but haven't heard back from most places.

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. Applications count, but also networking, job fairs, contacting employers directly. The key is documenting everything.

Don't forget you have to register with WorkSource too or your claim gets put on hold

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money.

It's worth checking out their site at claimyr.com - they focus on the value of actually reaching someone rather than sitting on hold forever. Way better than the alternative of never getting answers.

I tried calling Washington ESD for weeks before giving up. Might have to look into this option too.

What's standby status? Never heard of that one.

Standby is when your employer expects to recall you within a specific timeframe, usually 4-6 weeks. You don't have to do job searches but you have to be ready to return when called.

Those forms are part of the adjudication process. They're trying to determine if you meet the definition of unemployed through no fault of your own.

yeah but why can't they just explain it in plain english instead of all this bureaucratic nonsense

The legal definitions matter for benefit eligibility. It's frustrating but they have to follow specific state and federal guidelines.

That could qualify as good cause for quitting. You'll need to appeal the decision and provide documentation of the harassment. The appeal process has strict deadlines so don't wait.

How do I document harassment? I didn't file any formal complaints at work.

Emails, text messages, witness statements, any records you have. Even notes you took at the time can help. The key is showing you had no reasonable alternative but to quit.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. The adjudication process can drag on for weeks without explanation, and you need to talk to someone who can actually see what's holding up your claim.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. The stress of not knowing is worse than not having the money.

This is the clearest explanation so far. Thank you!

wish they explained it this clearly on their website instead of all that legal jargon

What about if you're fired for attendance issues due to medical problems?

Medical attendance issues can be complicated. If you have documentation showing the absences were due to a covered medical condition, you might still qualify. But you'd likely need to appeal if initially denied.

That's underemployment, which qualifies for partial unemployment benefits. You're still employed but working significantly reduced hours, so you can file for partial benefits.

Do I still have to job search if I'm getting partial benefits?

Yes, you still need to do job search activities unless you're on standby status expecting to return to full hours soon.

Generally you need to be available for work, which means able to start a job immediately. If your classes interfere with that availability, it could affect your claim. But there are approved training programs that don't affect eligibility.

How do you know if your training is approved?

You'd need to get approval from Washington ESD before starting. They have specific criteria for approved training programs.

Same here! The bureaucracy is insane. At least now I know about services like Claimyr to help navigate the phone system.

yeah anything that helps you actually talk to a human being has to be better than the automated runaround

This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel like I actually understand what I need to do now.

Glad we could help clarify things! The system is complex but once you understand the requirements it becomes more manageable.

Definitely saving this thread for reference. Thanks everyone!