One more thing - when you do get your decision, read it carefully even if you win. Sometimes there are conditions or requirements mentioned that you need to follow going forward.

I'm in a similar boat - filed my appeal 5 weeks ago after being denied, and had my hearing 2 weeks ago. The waiting is absolutely nerve-wracking, especially when you're struggling financially. From what I'm reading here, it sounds like 4-8 weeks is pretty typical for Washington ESD appeal decisions. I've been checking eServices obsessively but it just keeps saying "Decision Pending." At least it's reassuring to know this timeline is normal and that many people here have won their appeals. Keeping my fingers crossed for both of us!

The similarity between collective bargaining and minimum wage effects comes down to both preventing market-clearing wages. When wages can't adjust to balance supply and demand for labor, quantity adjustments happen instead - meaning unemployment. It's basic price theory applied to labor markets.

As someone who's been through this process, I can confirm that Washington ESD generally allows you to focus on positions matching your skill level and previous wages initially, but they do expect flexibility over time. The economic theory is interesting, but practically speaking, document everything - job applications, networking contacts, interviews, etc. I'd suggest keeping a spreadsheet with dates, company names, positions applied for, and any responses. Also consider looking into apprenticeship programs or retraining opportunities if your union background isn't leading to quick placement - Washington ESD sometimes has programs that can help bridge you into related fields while you're collecting benefits.

Update us on what happens! I'm curious if they'll move forward without your employer's input soon. In my experience, being persistent with calling ESD (even though it's frustrating) is still the best way to get movement on these issues. Ask specifically for an estimated timeline when you call - sometimes they can give you more information about where you are in the queue and how much longer you might have to wait.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! My former employer has been completely unresponsive to ESD for over 2 weeks. What's really frustrating is that I know they have a pattern of ignoring official correspondence - they did the same thing when the state tried to contact them about workplace safety violations last year. It feels like we're being punished for our employers' lack of professionalism. I've been documenting everything I can on my end (final pay stub, termination email, etc.) but the waiting is absolutely killing me financially. Really hoping ESD moves forward soon without needing their input!

Just saw this thread and wanted to add that I got approved for unemployment after being fired for falling asleep during a night shift. The key was documenting that I'd been working mandatory overtime for weeks and had requested schedule adjustments. Washington ESD ruled it wasn't willful misconduct.

I'm going through something very similar right now - got fired from my retail job for making a mistake during my shift after working 6 days straight because we were understaffed. Reading through all these responses is really helpful and gives me hope that Washington ESD will actually look at the full context rather than just the termination reason. It's frustrating how employers will push you to your breaking point and then act surprised when human limitations show up. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and advice!

Bottom line for OP: 1) Create SAW account, 2) File initial claim through eServices, 3) Start weekly claims after approval, 4) Keep job search records. Don't worry about account numbers - Washington ESD handles all that automatically.

I went through this exact process last month and can confirm what others have said. Create your SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account first - this is just the login portal. Then use that to access eServices where you'll file your actual unemployment claim. The system will automatically assign you an account (using your SSN as the identifier) when you submit your initial claim. No separate account number needed! The whole thing took me about an hour, and I had my monetary determination letter within 3 business days. Make sure you have all your employment history ready before you start - company names, addresses, dates, and reason for leaving each job. Good luck!