Can I appeal unemployment denial from Washington ESD?

Thank you! Do I need a lawyer for the appeal hearing or can I represent myself?

You can represent yourself, but having documentation ready is crucial. Gather any emails, performance reviews, or witness statements that show you weren't terminated for misconduct.

How long did your appeal take? I'm worried about paying bills while this drags on.

Mine took about 8 weeks from filing to getting the decision. But I got all my back benefits once I won the appeal.

Thanks, I'll look into that. The phone system is impossible to navigate.

Never heard of that service but anything beats sitting on hold for 3 hours just to get disconnected.

Oh no, that's terrible! I got my letter 3 days ago so I still have time.

Actually, you might still be able to appeal even after 30 days if you have good cause for the delay, like not receiving the letter on time. But definitely don't risk it.

For unemployment purposes, misconduct has to be willful or deliberate violation of company rules. Simple disagreements or poor performance usually don't qualify as misconduct.

ok that makes sense. sounds like OP has a good case then

Yes, I was nervous too! But the hearing officer was actually pretty fair. Just stick to the facts and have your documentation organized.

Good luck with your hearing! What kind of documentation did you prepare?

Thanks! I have all my old performance reviews and some emails showing the real reason I was let go.

I do have some text messages from my supervisor about the scheduling issues. Would those help?

Absolutely! Any written communication that shows the nature of the conflict would be valuable evidence.

That's encouraging that he won! Did he have to provide a lot of evidence?

Yeah he had to get a statement from a coworker who witnessed what really happened. But it was worth it in the end.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. It actually gets you to a real person instead of wasting hours on hold.

I might have to try that. This phone system is ridiculous.

That's good to know! I was worried I'd have to prove I did nothing wrong.

Exactly. They have to show deliberate wrongdoing, not just that you had workplace conflicts.

Thanks! I'll do it online today. Better safe than sorry with the 30-day deadline.

Smart choice. Make sure to print or screenshot the confirmation page for your records.

What kind of evidence helped you the most?

emails and texts showing what really happened vs what my employer claimed. also had a witness

Good to know there are other options if needed. Hopefully the first appeal will be enough.

Most cases are resolved at the first appeal level if you have good documentation.

That sounds like you have good medical documentation to support your case.

Yeah, I'm hoping the hearing officer sees through their excuse. Good luck with your appeal too!

If it's been less than 30 days, you can still appeal! Don't give up if you think the denial was wrong.

It's been 6 months now, so too late for me. But definitely good advice for others.

That's reassuring! I was nervous about the formal hearing process.

Yeah it's not as scary as it sounds. Just be prepared with your facts and stay calm.

That's exactly what I need! The regular phone number is useless.

Ok I'm definitely trying this service. Tired of wasting entire days on hold.

Good tip! I'll make sure to keep copies of all my appeal paperwork.

Yeah, always keep a paper trail. You never know when you'll need to reference something later.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm filing my appeal today.

You're welcome! Keep us updated on how it goes.

Yes, hope everything works out for you!