Will my boss know if I file for unemployment with Washington ESD?

Oh no, so they definitely find out? What exactly does the notice say?

The notice asks about your last day worked, reason for separation or hour reduction, and whether you were fired for misconduct. It's pretty standard paperwork.

Did it cause problems with your job? I'm worried they'll think I'm looking to leave.

nah it was fine, they understood hours were low. most employers know people file when work is slow

That makes me feel a bit better. Do you know how long after filing they contact the employer?

Usually within a few days to a week. The employer then has 10 calendar days to respond to Washington ESD.

I had trouble reaching Washington ESD to ask about this same thing. Ended up using Claimyr.com to get through to an actual agent who explained the whole process. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

That's encouraging! So some employers actually prefer you file rather than quit?

Exactly! It shows you want to stay with the company but need some financial help during the slow period.

I know you're right, I'm just nervous about the whole process.

Look, if your employer has a problem with you using unemployment benefits when you qualify, that says more about them than you.

Good to know they don't share how much I'm getting paid.

Wait, I thought employers could see benefit amounts? I've been worried about this too.

No, benefit amounts are confidential. Employers only get info about work history and whether the claim was approved or denied.

How does that work? Do they just keep calling until someone answers?

Yeah basically. You give them your info and they call Washington ESD until they reach an agent, then conference you in. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

You should absolutely file. Partial unemployment benefits exist specifically for situations like yours. It's not about being ungrateful - it's about surviving financially.

You're right. I guess I need to stop feeling guilty about using a program I've paid into through my taxes.

That's reassuring. I work in retail too so maybe it really is just routine for them.

I didn't know about the weekly reporting. So they see I'm still earning some money?

Yes, you have to report all earnings. Washington ESD then reduces your benefit amount accordingly. It's all transparent with your employer.

This is why I used Claimyr to talk to an actual Washington ESD agent about partial benefits. So many rules to understand and the website isn't always clear.

Good point. I should probably take pictures of my schedule to show the difference.

Exactly! And save any texts or emails about the schedule changes. Documentation is key if there's any dispute.

No, it's illegal to fire someone for filing a valid unemployment claim. That would be retaliation and violates Washington state law.

Good to know! I was worried about that too.

You're absolutely right. I need to stop thinking of it like I'm doing something wrong.

That's a perspective I hadn't considered. Maybe my boss would actually appreciate that I'm not job hunting elsewhere.

Right! It shows commitment to the company while still taking care of your financial needs responsibly.

Is it expensive to use?

They focus on getting you connected rather than cost. Honestly worth it just to avoid the stress of trying to get through on your own.

That's great! I think I'm going to file today too. You all convinced me it's the right thing to do.

Good for both of you! Remember to file your weekly claims on time and report all earnings accurately.

Definitely! All the unknowns make it scarier than it needs to be.

Wait, do I need to look for other jobs if I'm hoping my current job gives me more hours back?

You might be able to get a standby waiver if your employer expects to bring you back to full hours within a specific timeframe. Worth asking Washington ESD about.

This is exactly the kind of question I had to use Claimyr for. The standby rules are confusing and the website doesn't explain all the scenarios clearly.

No problem! I'm glad I asked too. Turns out lots of us have the same worries.

Thank you so much for all the detailed explanations. I feel much more confident about the whole process now.

Same here. This thread was exactly what I needed to read.