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.

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.

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!

Last thought - consider reaching out to local caregiver support groups or organizations. They often have experience with benefits issues and might have specific advice for dealing with Washington ESD. Plus the emotional support can be really valuable.

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.

If your claim is stuck in pending status for more than 3 weeks, you can also try contacting your state representative. I know it sounds extreme, but they can sometimes help push things along with ESD. I had to do this last year when my claim was stuck in adjudication for 2 months with no movement. Had a response within days after my rep's office reached out.

Just wanted to share another option - if you have a local WorkSource office near you, they sometimes have direct lines to ESD that can be more reliable than calling the main number. I went to my local WorkSource when I was having similar issues and they were able to get me connected within an hour. Worth checking if you have one nearby and they're doing in-person appointments. Also, for the ReliaCard replacement, US Bank can expedite it for a fee if you really need the funds quickly - I think it was like $15 but got my card in 2-3 days instead of the usual week.