What should I say at my Washington ESD unemployment appeal hearing next week?

I have some pay stubs that show my hours went from 35/week to like 8/week. Would that help prove I had to quit?

Absolutely! That's exactly what you need. Bring at least 3 months of pay stubs showing the pattern.

How do I prove 8 hours a week wasn't reasonable? I couldn't pay my bills on that.

Bring your monthly expenses - rent, utilities, car payment, etc. Show that 8 hours wouldn't cover basic living costs.

Thank you! I should practice saying this out loud shouldn't I?

Yes! And don't ramble. Answer the question they ask, then stop talking. Let them ask follow-ups.

Never heard of that. Does it actually work or is it a scam?

It's legit. I was skeptical too but I was desperate to talk to someone at Washington ESD and couldn't get through after calling for days.

What's constructive discharge? I've never heard that term before.

It's when an employer makes working conditions so bad or cuts your hours so severely that any reasonable person would have to quit. It's treated like being fired, not quitting.

This is exactly right. Use this term in your hearing - 'constructive discharge' - it shows you understand the legal concept.

Did you win your appeal?

Yeah I did! Took about 2 weeks to get the written decision but they overturned the disqualification.

That's smart. I'll make a timeline tonight with all the important dates.

Also bring proof you looked for other work while your hours were cut. Job applications, indeed searches, anything that shows you tried other options first.

Really? I thought I had to prove I didn't quit voluntarily.

Nope! They have to prove their case. You just need to present reasonable doubt about their version of events.

I think so? They sent in some paperwork saying I quit voluntarily. How do I know if they'll actually be at the hearing?

They should have told you in the hearing notice. If they don't show up, it's basically just you explaining your side to the judge.

This is probably going to be the hardest part. My old boss lies about everything.

I know it's frustrating but getting emotional or arguing hurts your case. Let your documentation speak for itself.

Can I have someone there with me for moral support?

Yes, you can have a representative or just someone for support. They can't speak for you unless they're your official representative though.

It's actually in person at the WorkSource office. Good point about dressing up though.

Even better! Make eye contact with the judge and speak clearly. First impressions matter.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already broke from being unemployed.

It's reasonable for what it does. Way better than spending hours on hold or never getting through at all.

Good thinking. I'll make copies of all my pay stubs and documentation tonight.

I hope so. This whole process has been so stressful but everyone's advice is really helping.

You got this! Just be honest, stick to the facts, and let your documentation tell the story.

Let's hope it doesn't come to that! But good to know there are more options.

Hopefully you won't need it, but it's there if you do. Good luck with your hearing!

Will do! Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice. I feel so much more prepared now.

We've all been there. The unemployment system is confusing but forums like this help us all figure it out together.