Final answer: unless your former employer specifically told you about a supplemental unemployment benefit program during your employment, you probably don't have access to one. Focus on your regular Washington ESD benefits and don't worry about missing out on something that likely doesn't exist for your situation.

Just wanted to add that if you're still curious about whether your former employer had any supplemental programs, you could check your old employee handbook or benefits documentation. Companies that offer these programs usually include them in their official benefits materials. But honestly, based on everything discussed here, it sounds like you're getting all the benefits you're entitled to through Washington ESD's regular unemployment program.

Remember that even with training benefits, you usually have to maintain satisfactory progress in your program and might have to pay back benefits if you don't complete it. Just something to keep in mind.

I went through a similar situation a few years ago when I wanted to transition into healthcare. What saved me was finding out about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding through my local American Job Center. It's different from regular unemployment but can provide financial support while you're in approved training programs. The key is that nursing is often considered a high-demand occupation, so you might have better luck with WIOA than trying to get unemployment after quitting. I'd suggest visiting your local WorkSource office in person - they can walk you through all the different funding options available and help you apply before you leave your current job. Don't give up on your nursing dreams!

Make sure you call in EARLY for your hearing!!!! I was literally 2 minutes late calling in and the judge marked me as a no-show. Had to appeal AGAIN and wait another month. The system is totally against us.

I went through this exact same process about 6 months ago and won my appeal! A few additional tips that really helped me: 1. Have water nearby - phone hearings can be long and your mouth gets dry 2. Find a quiet space where you won't be interrupted (I used my car in a parking lot) 3. Test your phone connection beforehand - bad reception can hurt your case 4. Write down the main points you want to make and check them off as you cover them The fact that you have documented communication with your boss about each incident is HUGE in your favor. Most people don't have that evidence. You're actually in a really strong position here. One more thing - if your former manager tries to say you were chronically late or had other issues, stick to the facts about just these three documented incidents. Don't let them expand the scope beyond what you were actually fired for. You've got this! The preparation you're doing shows you're taking it seriously, which the judge will notice.

I'm so sorry about your father's stroke and the difficult position you're in. As someone who works in social services, I want to emphasize that Washington state does recognize family caregiving as potential "good cause" for voluntary separation. The key is documentation and showing that you exhausted other reasonable alternatives. Beyond what others have mentioned, also gather any written communication with your employer about your situation - emails discussing your need for time off, their response about FMLA eligibility, etc. This creates a paper trail showing you tried to work with them first. Also, if possible, get a statement from your father's medical team specifically addressing why he requires family care rather than just professional services - sometimes family members can provide continuity and emotional support that's medically beneficial. The adjudicator will be looking for evidence that a reasonable person in your situation would have made the same choice. Stay strong - you're doing the right thing for your dad.

I went through a very similar situation when my mother had a severe heart attack and needed round-the-clock care. Washington ESD did approve my claim, but it took about 6 weeks and required extensive documentation. Here's what really helped my case: I got a detailed letter from her cardiologist explaining not just her medical needs, but specifically why family supervision was medically necessary for her recovery and mental health. I also documented every attempt I made to find alternative care - I got quotes from three home health agencies and two assisted living facilities to show they were either unavailable immediately or financially impossible on my salary. The adjudicator told me later that showing I had genuinely explored all other options before quitting was crucial. One thing I wish I'd known earlier - start applying for your dad's Medicare/Medicaid benefits now if you haven't already, as some of those services can take months to kick in. Also keep detailed records of his daily care needs and your caregiving activities, as this helps demonstrate the full-time nature of the care required. The financial stress is real, but don't give up on the claim - caregivers deserve support too.

Does anyone know if the phone lines are open during lunch time? I can only call during my lunch break at work.

Final update: Got my adjudication resolved! Turns out there was just a missing piece of paperwork from my previous employer. Thanks everyone for the timing tips and especially whoever mentioned Claimyr - that really saved me.