2 answers
Danielle
Student
Miami, Florida
1
Question
Updated
1321 views
Given that my hours at PetSmart have been drastically reduced to just one day every other week after two years of employment, am I eligible for unemployment benefits, and could you offer any advice or support as I navigate this situation? I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to reach out for some guidance regarding my current work situation. I’ve been working at PetSmart for about two years, but recently my hours have been drastically reduced — I’m now only scheduled to work one day every other week. This sudden change has had a serious impact on my income and overall stability. I’m trying to understand if this situation might make me eligible for unemployment benefits, and more importantly, I would appreciate any advice or support you could offer as I navigate these changes and plan my next steps. Thank you so much for your time and help. Best, Danielle ?
Hi
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to reach out for some guidance regarding my current work situation. I’ve been working at PetSmart for about two years, but recently my hours have been drastically reduced — I’m now only scheduled to work one day every other week. This sudden change has had a serious impact on my income and overall stability.
I’m trying to understand if this situation might make me eligible for unemployment benefits, and more importantly, I would appreciate any advice or support you could offer as I navigate these changes and plan my next steps.
Thank you so much for your time and help.
Best,
Danielle
Login to comment
2 answers
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Danielle, as you surely know, when you depend on a certain amount of income- and I am talking minimum income- it is a hardship when such a change happens. I am curious if there is a reason why- store downsizing, scheduling conflicts, etc. If you are in school, it can also be challenging to find work that fits with school hours and study time. But regardless, unemployment can be a life raft to float you between jobs; I hope it is something you can pursue. While on unemployment you may be required to submit information stating you applied to (around) three jobs a week so you can get started on this now- if this is something you want to do (seek new employment). If I knew more about you personally, I might recommend vocational options- but sometimes when in school you simply need a job- any job to get you through your education. You might also see if your school has housing support or scholarships; though scholarships can be competitive I know many who had their rent covered as a result. If you are not currently a student and interested in animals- you might consider leveling up your education and enter into a vet assistant or vet tech program. Animal shelters are also interesting places to work with a lot of animal and people interaction. I am making the assumption this may be an interest for you! No matter what, follow your priorities- whether financial, a certain type of work, a certain amount of flexibility, etc. Best of luck as you ride this transitional wave. It will pass and you will get back to a place of greater stability!
Denise Heffron, PSM, PMI-ACP, PMP
Experience Strategy
48
Answers
North Aurora, Illinois
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hello Danielle,
So sorry to hear about your situation. Hopefully some of the information I have can be helpful to you and others in similar situations.
It’s tough to have your hours cut, but you still have control over how you respond. Start taking action right away — the sooner you move, the more options you'll have.
Check If You Qualify for Unemployment
- Research your state’s rules: In many places, you can collect partial unemployment if your hours are significantly reduced — not just if you're fully laid off.
- Apply ASAP: Unemployment benefits often start from the week you apply, not the week you lose hours.
- Gather documents: Pay stubs, your work schedule, and any written notice from your employer about the hour change. You’ll likely need them.
Talk to Your Current Employer
Before you walk away, consider having a respectful conversation with your boss or manager:
- Ask if there’s any chance hours might pick back up.
- See if there are other roles, shifts, or departments you could pick up work in.
- Be honest but positive — you’re trying to work more, not cause issues.
Start a Focused Job Search
- Update your resume: Make sure it’s clean, clear, and shows your recent experience.
- Set a schedule: Treat job hunting like a part-time job. Spend a few hours a day applying and networking.
- Look in a few different areas: Don’t just apply for one type of job. Broaden your options a little — customer service, warehouse, retail, remote work, etc.
- Use your network: Tell friends, family, or old coworkers you're looking. Most jobs get filled through personal connections.
Consider Temporary or Part-Time Work
Even short-term or gig work (like food delivery, warehouse shifts, tutoring, pet sitting) can help stabilize your income while you search for something longer-term.
Take Care of Yourself
Job instability is stressful. Make sure you’re:
- Getting enough sleep
- Taking breaks during job searching
- Leaning on supportive people around you
Stay Open to Learning
If you have extra time, think about building a new skill:
- Free online courses (like Coursera, edX, YouTube)
- Certifications that boost your job options (ex: CPR certification, food safety permits, basic computer skills)
- Look into Government Grants to upskill via WIOA.gov
Best of luck to you!
So sorry to hear about your situation. Hopefully some of the information I have can be helpful to you and others in similar situations.
It’s tough to have your hours cut, but you still have control over how you respond. Start taking action right away — the sooner you move, the more options you'll have.
Check If You Qualify for Unemployment
- Research your state’s rules: In many places, you can collect partial unemployment if your hours are significantly reduced — not just if you're fully laid off.
- Apply ASAP: Unemployment benefits often start from the week you apply, not the week you lose hours.
- Gather documents: Pay stubs, your work schedule, and any written notice from your employer about the hour change. You’ll likely need them.
Talk to Your Current Employer
Before you walk away, consider having a respectful conversation with your boss or manager:
- Ask if there’s any chance hours might pick back up.
- See if there are other roles, shifts, or departments you could pick up work in.
- Be honest but positive — you’re trying to work more, not cause issues.
Start a Focused Job Search
- Update your resume: Make sure it’s clean, clear, and shows your recent experience.
- Set a schedule: Treat job hunting like a part-time job. Spend a few hours a day applying and networking.
- Look in a few different areas: Don’t just apply for one type of job. Broaden your options a little — customer service, warehouse, retail, remote work, etc.
- Use your network: Tell friends, family, or old coworkers you're looking. Most jobs get filled through personal connections.
Consider Temporary or Part-Time Work
Even short-term or gig work (like food delivery, warehouse shifts, tutoring, pet sitting) can help stabilize your income while you search for something longer-term.
Take Care of Yourself
Job instability is stressful. Make sure you’re:
- Getting enough sleep
- Taking breaks during job searching
- Leaning on supportive people around you
Stay Open to Learning
If you have extra time, think about building a new skill:
- Free online courses (like Coursera, edX, YouTube)
- Certifications that boost your job options (ex: CPR certification, food safety permits, basic computer skills)
- Look into Government Grants to upskill via WIOA.gov
Best of luck to you!