Can I apply for Washington ESD unemployment if I resigned from my job?

What kind of documentation would I need? I have some emails but not sure if that's enough.

Emails are good, also any HR complaints you filed, witness statements, medical records if stress affected your health, anything showing you tried to resolve the situation first.

How long did your adjudication take? I'm worried about paying bills while waiting.

Mine took about 6 weeks but I eventually got approved and received back pay for the whole period. Just make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication.

How much does something like that cost? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to talk to Washington ESD.

I get the frustration but honestly it was worth it for me. Way better than spending hours on hold just to get disconnected.

It's a common misconception. Washington ESD has specific 'good cause' provisions for voluntary quits. Hostile work environment is one of them.

This changes everything. I need to look into this more seriously.

Actually that's not great advice. If you apply without understanding the requirements, you could end up with an overpayment situation later if you're not eligible.

fair point, didn't think about that

I definitely tried to resolve it through HR first. Should I mention that in my application?

Absolutely. Document everything - dates you spoke to HR, what you discussed, their response or lack thereof. This shows you made good faith efforts.

What kind of timeline are we talking about? I'm already stressed about money.

Mine was about 8 weeks total but I've heard it can vary a lot depending on how backed up they are with adjudications.

Adjudication is when Washington ESD investigates your claim. They'll contact your former employer, possibly request additional documentation from you, and make a determination about your eligibility.

Do they interview you or is it all paperwork?

Usually it's phone interviews with both you and your former employer, plus reviewing any documents you submit.

How long do I have to file after leaving my job?

You should file within the first week or two of becoming unemployed. The sooner the better.

The guidelines are actually on their website, but they're written in confusing legal language that's hard to understand.

Exactly my point. It shouldn't require a law degree to figure out if you qualify for benefits.

Did it actually help you get answers faster?

Yes, I was able to speak with an actual agent within a day instead of calling for weeks with no luck.

Do I need to start job searching immediately or can I wait until my claim is approved?

You should start immediately. Washington ESD requires you to be able and available for work from the moment you file your claim.

That's frustrating but not typical. Most straightforward claims get processed much faster.

maybe but mine was a nightmare and i know others who had similar experiences

How long do you have to file an appeal?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file your appeal.

That's awful. Do you have documentation of the discrimination?

Yes, I filed complaints with HR and also reported it to the state civil rights agency. Hoping that helps my case.

Thank you, this has been really helpful. I'm going to gather my documentation and file my claim this week.

Good luck! Remember to keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication.

That's good to know. I was worried about that too.

Yeah, the benefit calculation is based on your earnings over the past 12-18 months, depending on when you file.

I might need to try that. Been calling for 2 weeks with no luck getting through.

Check out their demo video first to see how it works. Really straightforward process.

I'm actually expecting them to contest it. They definitely won't want to pay higher unemployment taxes.

That's exactly why having solid documentation is so important. Make your case as strong as possible from the start.

Thank you! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about moving forward.

You're welcome! Feel free to update us on how it goes.