This thread has been super helpful! I'm in a similar situation and had the same confusion about unemployment vs underemployment terminology. Glad to know partial unemployment is an option for people working reduced hours.

Just want to emphasize that you should definitely apply ASAP since there's often a waiting period before benefits start. When I was in your exact situation (laid off from full-time, working part-time retail), I wish I had applied sooner. Washington ESD backdates benefits to when you first became eligible, but it's better to get the process started right away. Also, keep detailed records of your part-time hours and earnings - you'll need to report these accurately every week when you file your continued claims.

thanks everyone for all the info in this thread. feeling a lot more prepared for what might happen when my benefits run out

I'm in a similar situation at week 22 and this whole thread has been incredibly eye-opening. I had no idea that Extended Benefits weren't guaranteed or that they depended on unemployment rate triggers. The Washington ESD website really doesn't explain this clearly at all. I've been assuming there would be some kind of automatic extension, but now I realize I need to start preparing for my benefits to just end. Going to look into SNAP and other DSHS programs this week, and maybe try that Claimyr service if I need to get through to someone at Washington ESD. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it's scary but at least now I know what I'm facing.

UPDATE: My status finally changed from "processing IVR" to "paid" this morning! So it took about 2.5 days instead of the usual 1-2 days. Thanks everyone for the reassurance that I did it right. For anyone else in a similar situation with on-call or variable hours, just answer truthfully about whether you worked actual hours that week, and be patient with the processing time.

So glad to see your update that everything worked out! I'm actually in a similar boat - I work as a substitute teacher and some weeks there are literally no openings, so I have to report zero hours. The first time it happened I was terrified I'd messed something up, but like everyone said here, you just answer honestly about whether you actually worked that week. The "processing IVR" status always makes my heart skip a beat though because you never know if something went wrong. Thanks for sharing your experience - it'll definitely help other people in variable-hour jobs who run into this!

Perfect, thank you! That makes sense. I've applied for some temp positions that would end right around my due date, so this is really helpful information.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this situation - pregnancy discrimination is unfortunately more common than it should be. As someone who went through a similar experience, I want to echo what others have said about documenting everything and definitely uploading those accommodation emails to your ESD account. One thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned yet: when you're doing your weekly job searches, consider reaching out to temp agencies that specialize in short-term placements. Many are more understanding about hiring someone for a few months, and some even have clients specifically looking for temporary coverage. I found this approach less stressful than trying to navigate potential discrimination in traditional interviews. Also, make sure you're familiar with your rights during job interviews - employers legally cannot ask about pregnancy, family plans, or medical conditions. If they do, you're not required to answer, and it could be additional evidence of discrimination if they don't hire you. Keep your chin up - you're doing all the right things by documenting everything and pursuing multiple avenues for support. The combination of UI benefits now and PFML later will help bridge you financially through this challenging time.

For anyone else in this situation - don't panic! Empty debit card is normal. Just keep filing your weekly claims and check your account online every few days. The money will show up eventually.

Just went through this exact same thing last month! Got my KeyBank card and immediately panicked when I saw $0.00. Turns out Washington ESD has this weird process where they mail the card right after approval but payments don't start until after you've completed your first weekly claim AND they've processed it. The whole thing took about 12 days from getting the card to seeing my first deposit. Hang in there - once that first payment hits, the rest come like clockwork every week!