One thing to consider beyond the unemployment benefits - if you do go back, try to get the job offer in writing with details about the raise and any other changes. Since they already let you go once due to "performance issues" that apparently weren't actually your fault, you'll want some documentation about the new terms. Also might be worth asking about job security or what's changed to prevent this from happening again. The unemployment benefit situation sounds like it'll work out fine based on what others have said, but protecting yourself going forward is important too.

Dylan, you're definitely not alone in this situation - getting rehired after collecting unemployment can be confusing! The good news is that since you were legitimately fired on October 1st and have been properly following all the requirements (job searches, weekly claims), you won't have to repay those benefits. The key is that your separation was genuine and involuntary, and this rehire offer came unexpectedly after a management change. When you make your decision, just remember to: - Report your return-to-work date accurately on your final weekly claim - Stop claiming benefits once you start working again - If you start mid-week, report those earnings properly for partial benefits calculation The unemployment you collected during those 6 weeks was rightfully yours during a period of legitimate unemployment. Going back to your former employer doesn't somehow retroactively invalidate that. Best of luck with whatever you decide!

Quick update on current adjudication timeframes - I was at a WorkSource event last week and the ESD rep there said they're currently running about 8-9 weeks for most adjudications due to staffing shortages. However, they are prioritizing hardship cases, so definitely mention any urgent financial situation when you do get through. Regarding the hour reduction - that's definitely considered good cause for quitting in Washington, as long as it was at least a 25% reduction (which 40 to 15 certainly is). Make sure you emphasize that point when you speak with them.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the stress of waiting for adjudication while bills pile up is absolutely terrible. I went through something similar last year (different issue though - employer dispute) and it took about 7 weeks total. A couple things that helped me: 1. Document EVERYTHING - keep records of all your attempts to contact ESD, screenshot your weekly claims, save any correspondence 2. If you haven't already, write up a clear timeline of what happened with your hours reduction and have all your paystubs ready 3. Consider reaching out to your state representative's office - they sometimes have liaisons who can help with ESD issues The waiting is brutal but from what others are saying, your case sounds pretty straightforward since the hour reduction is clearly documented good cause. Hang in there and keep filing those weekly claims! You'll get through this.

Thanks everyone for all this helpful information! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now. I'm going to gather all my employment info this weekend and file online early next week. Hopefully everything goes smoothly, but at least I know what to expect and have resources like Claimyr if I need help reaching Washington ESD.

One important thing to add - if you've received any severance pay or vacation payout, make sure to report this accurately. Washington ESD needs to know about any money you received after your last day of work, as it can affect when your benefits start. The severance might delay your first payment, but it's better to be upfront about it than have them find out later and create complications with your claim.

Your friend should also check if she needs to serve a waiting week. Some claims require you to serve one week without payment before benefits start, which might look like a denial if she doesn't understand the process.

honestly the whole system is confusing and they don't explain things clearly. half the time even the washington esd agents give different answers to the same question

This has been really informative. I bookmarked this thread in case I need to reference it later. Thanks to everyone who contributed their knowledge!

I went through this exact situation last year when my company downsized. With your $4,200/month salary, you're probably looking at somewhere between $600-800 per week in benefits, depending on your wage history. The key thing to remember is that Washington calculates based on your highest earning quarter in the base period (last 4 of 5 completed quarters), not your current pay. I'd recommend gathering your pay stubs from the past 15 months so you can estimate which quarter was your highest. Also, start preparing financially now - even in the best case scenario, you're looking at roughly half your current income, and that's before taxes. Good luck with the potential layoffs - hopefully it doesn't come to that!