One more important point: in your appeal, use the specific language from the law that works in your favor. RCW 50.04.294(2)(b) specifically states that "inability to meet the minimum job performance standards or requirements of the position" is NOT misconduct when it's about capability rather than attitude. Quoting the exact legal statute that supports your case can be very effective in these hearings, as it shows you understand the legal basis for your appeal. The judge will be evaluating your case based on these specific legal definitions.

I went through something very similar when I was let go from a data entry position for not meeting their speed requirements. Like you, I was accurate but just couldn't work as fast as they wanted despite genuinely trying my best every day. ESD initially denied me too, citing the same performance standards reasoning. The good news is I won my appeal! The key was demonstrating that I was making a good faith effort and that my "poor performance" was about capability, not willful misconduct. I brought documentation showing my accuracy rates were actually above average and that I had never been disciplined for anything other than speed. During the hearing, I emphasized that being "too methodical" (which sounds exactly like what your boss said about you) isn't misconduct - it's actually trying to do quality work! The judge agreed that struggling with speed while maintaining accuracy doesn't constitute willful disregard of the employer's interests. Make sure to appeal within the 30-day deadline and gather any evidence that shows you were trying to do good work. Performance reviews, emails about your accuracy, anything that demonstrates good faith effort. You've got a strong case here!

Good luck getting through to ESD if they have questions!!! I spent 3 weeks calling EVERY DAY and couldnt get through. Their phone system is the absolute worst!!

I went through something very similar last year - demotion with 20% pay cut plus they moved me to the graveyard shift "due to business needs." Filed for unemployment and got approved after about 7 weeks in adjudication. Key things that helped my case: - I documented EVERYTHING - emails about the demotion, my old job description vs new one, pay stubs showing the reduction - I kept a detailed log of the hostile treatment after the demotion (dates, witnesses, specific incidents) - I had proof I tried to resolve it internally first (emails to HR, meeting requests with my supervisor) During the adjudication interview, the investigator asked very specific questions about why I felt I had no choice but to quit. Having concrete examples with dates made a huge difference. My former employer did contest it, but ESD sided with me because I had solid documentation. The waiting is brutal - I know how stressful it is when you have bills to pay. But your situation with the 25% pay cut plus the obvious retaliation sounds like a strong case for good cause quit. Just make sure you have everything documented and be patient with the process.

Have you tried tweeting at Washington ESD? Sometimes social media pressure gets faster responses.

I'm dealing with the exact same frustrating situation! Been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my claim that's been stuck in "pending" status. The phone system is completely broken - either busy signals or getting disconnected after hours on hold. I've tried calling at different times, using the callback request feature, even visited a local WorkSource office but they said they can't directly help with claim issues. It's incredibly stressful when you're depending on these benefits to pay rent and bills. Really considering trying one of those callback services people mentioned here since the free methods aren't working. Has anyone had luck with contacting state representatives about this issue? Seems like the system needs serious attention from higher up.

Final thought - whatever you do, don't leave it blank. I know someone who did that and it delayed their claim for weeks while they sorted it out. Just pick something reasonable and move forward.

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! Had worked as everything from retail associate to team lead to operations coordinator. I ended up putting my most recent title (operations coordinator) even though I'd only been in that role for 8 months versus 2+ years in retail. My claim went through without any issues. The key thing I learned is that Washington ESD pulls your actual wage data directly from employers, so the occupation dropdown is really just for their internal tracking and job search guidance. Don't stress too much about finding the "perfect" match - just pick the closest option to your most recent role and you'll be fine!

Bottom line - yes you can collect both. Just be honest about all your income sources and you'll be fine. Good luck with your job search!

I went through this same situation last year at 63 after getting laid off from Microsoft. You can definitely collect both - I've been doing it for 14 months now without any issues. The key things to remember: 1) Report your full social security amount on your weekly claims, 2) Keep detailed records of your job search activities (3 per week minimum), and 3) Don't let anyone tell you that collecting social security means you're "retired" - as long as you're actively looking for work, you're eligible. The Washington ESD agents I spoke with were very clear that these are completely separate programs. One tip: when you file your initial claim online, there's a specific section where you'll enter your social security income - don't skip it thinking it doesn't apply. Good luck with your search!