Who eligible for unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about requirements

You don't need to work full-time to qualify for Washington ESD benefits. The main requirements are that you earned enough wages during your base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters) and that you're unemployed through no fault of your own. Part-time work can definitely count toward your wage requirements.

i was part time too and got approved no problem, just apply and see what happens

Here are the basic eligibility requirements for Washington unemployment: 1) You must have earned sufficient wages during your base period, 2) You must be unemployed through no fault of your own (layoffs, business closure, reduction in hours), 3) You must be able and available to work, 4) You must actively seek work. Part-time workers can absolutely qualify if they meet the wage requirements.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I needed to verify my eligibility status last month. Kept getting busy signals and getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Made the whole process so much easier than trying to call on my own.

Don't forget you also need to be a US citizen or have work authorization, and you need to register with WorkSource within 4 weeks of filing your claim (unless you're on standby or have a definite return-to-work date).

also make sure you didnt quit voluntarily or get fired for misconduct because that disqualifies you

The Washington ESD system is so complicated. I applied last year and it took forever to get approved because they had to verify my wages from multiple employers. Just be patient with the process.

One thing to keep in mind - even if you're eligible, your weekly benefit amount depends on how much you earned. With part-time wages, your benefits might be lower than someone who worked full-time.

I'm in a similar situation - worked part-time as a server for about 6 months before the restaurant closed. Still waiting to hear back on my application but feeling more confident after reading these responses.

THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN!!! I've been trying to get answers about my eligibility for weeks and can't get through to anyone at Washington ESD. How are we supposed to know if we qualify when we can't even talk to a human being???

Don't overthink it - just apply online through the Washington ESD website. The system will tell you if you're eligible based on your work history. Worst case scenario, you get denied and you're no worse off than you are now.

I was eligible but my claim got stuck in adjudication for weeks because they needed to verify why I was laid off. Finally got resolved but it was stressful not knowing what was happening.

Also remember you need to file weekly claims to actually receive benefits, even after you're approved. And you have to report any work you do, even if it's just a few hours.

my sister works part time and got unemployment when her hours got cut way back, so definitely possible for part timers

The eligibility requirements aren't that complicated once you understand them. The hard part is actually getting through the application and approval process without any hiccups. Good luck!