When does someone qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington?

That's helpful! So even part-time hours count toward the earnings requirement? I was worried they wouldn't.

Yes, all covered employment counts. The key is reaching that minimum dollar threshold, not the number of hours worked.

What kind of job search log do they require?

You need to complete at least 3 job search activities per week and keep records in WorkSourceWA. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, etc.

Really? I was dreading having to call them. How much does that service cost?

It's worth it just to avoid the endless busy signals and getting hung up on. Way less stressful than the normal Washington ESD phone nightmare.

I've heard mixed things about those callback services. Did they actually help with eligibility questions or just get you through?

Wait, I can get partial benefits even if I'm still technically employed but with reduced hours?

Yes, if your hours/wages were reduced through no fault of your own, you may qualify for partial UI benefits. You'd report your earnings each week and Washington ESD calculates any benefit amount.

This is exactly what happened to me last year. Filed for partial benefits when my restaurant cut everyone's hours. Took forever to process though.

My attendance has been good and they said it's just slow business, so that should be okay then.

Yeah but sometimes employers try to claim misconduct to avoid paying into the UI system. Document everything just in case.

Good point. Should I file online or call them?

Definitely online first. The website is much faster than trying to call Washington ESD.

How do you prove job search when you're still partially employed?

Same requirements - you still need to document your job search activities in WorkSourceWA even for partial benefits.

The requirements exist to prevent fraud and ensure the system helps people who genuinely need temporary income support while job searching.

I get that but it shouldn't take a law degree to figure out if you qualify

Is there a way to estimate what I might get before applying?

Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website, but you'll need your wage information from the past 15 months to use it accurately.

Adjudication? What's that?

Adjudication is when Washington ESD reviews your claim to determine eligibility. It can happen if there are questions about why you left your job or other eligibility factors.

Yeah and good luck getting anyone on the phone to explain what's happening during adjudication. That's when I tried that Claimyr service someone mentioned - finally got answers.

What kind of things do they verify?

They verify your wages with employers, the reason for separation, and can audit your job search activities. Always be truthful on your application and weekly claims.

Waiting week means I won't get paid for the first week I'm eligible?

Exactly. The first week is unpaid but you still need to file the claim to establish your benefit year.

How do I figure out what my base year is?

If you file in 2025, your base year is probably October 2023 through September 2024. Washington ESD uses the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters.

Should I ask my manager to put the hour reduction in writing?

If you can get it in writing without seeming suspicious, definitely. But don't stress if you can't - they have to respond to Washington ESD inquiries anyway.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. Saved me hours of frustration trying to get basic questions answered.

might have to look into that if I run into problems

I take the bus to work, does that count as a restriction?

Transportation limitations can affect your available work search area, but using public transit isn't automatically disqualifying. You just need to search for jobs accessible by your transportation method.

Thanks everyone, this has been really helpful. I think I'll apply this week before my hours get cut even more.

Good plan. Just remember to keep filing your weekly claims on time and document your job search activities from day one.

How long do you have to appeal if they deny you?

30 days from the date of the determination notice. Appeals can take a while but sometimes they overturn the initial decision.

Thank you! Feeling much more confident about applying now.

Great advice, I'll make sure to document everything.

Yeah definitely keep records. I had to resubmit my initial application twice because their system glitched.