Can I collect Washington ESD unemployment if I get fired for medical reasons?

Generally speaking, if you're fired for reasons beyond your control (like a medical condition), you may still qualify for UI benefits. The key is whether Washington ESD considers it 'misconduct' or not. Medical inability to perform job duties typically isn't considered misconduct, but you'll need documentation from your doctor.

I went through something similar last year. Got let go because I couldn't meet the physical demands after a knee injury. Washington ESD approved my claim but it took forever to get through adjudication. Make sure you document everything and file right away.

Have you looked into requesting reasonable accommodations from your employer first? Under the ADA, they might be required to modify your job duties or provide equipment to help you. If they refuse reasonable accommodations and then fire you, that actually strengthens your unemployment case.

I had such a hard time getting through to Washington ESD when I was dealing with a medical separation issue. Spent hours on hold every day for weeks. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Made the whole process so much easier when I could actually talk to someone.

the system is so broken. they'll make you jump through hoops to prove you deserve benefits even when you're literally disabled and cant work. its ridiculous how they treat people who are already suffering

Make sure you understand the difference between being 'able and available' for work versus being able to do your specific job. Washington ESD requires you to be able and available for some type of work, even if you can't do your previous job due to medical reasons. You might need to show you can do sedentary work or other types of jobs.

Document everything NOW before you get fired. Keep records of when your condition started affecting work, any conversations with supervisors about it, medical appointments, everything. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.

Also consider filing for workers compensation if your back problems are related to your job duties. That's separate from unemployment but could provide additional support.

same boat here friend. herniated disc and my job wants me lifting 75 lbs all day. impossible.

One more thing - when you file your claim, be very clear that the separation was due to your medical inability to perform the essential functions of the job, not due to attendance issues or poor performance in general. The way you frame it matters for Washington ESD's determination.

Just want to follow up on the Claimyr thing - I used them again last month when I had questions about my job search requirements. Super helpful for getting through the phone maze at Washington ESD. The agents were actually able to explain things clearly instead of just reading from a script.

Have you considered applying for disability benefits instead of or in addition to unemployment? If your back condition is severe enough to prevent you from working, you might qualify for Social Security disability.

Make sure you file your weekly claims on time even if your initial claim is still being adjudicated. You can't get back pay for weeks you didn't file, even if you qualify.

This happened to my brother. He was a mechanic but developed carpal tunnel so bad he couldn't use tools properly. Got fired for 'performance issues' but Washington ESD approved his claim once he provided medical documentation. Took a while but he got benefits.

The whole system seems designed to deny people first and make you fight for what you deserve. It's exhausting when you're already dealing with health problems.

Quick question - are you union? If so, definitely talk to your union rep before anything happens. They might be able to help with accommodation requests or protect you from termination.

Don't quit before they fire you! If you quit for medical reasons it's much harder to get unemployment. Let them terminate you if that's where it's heading.

One last piece of advice - when you do file your claim, be prepared for them to ask detailed questions about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. Having a clear, consistent story backed up by medical records will help your case significantly.

Been following this thread because I'm in similar situation with a shoulder injury. Really helpful information from everyone. This forum is better than trying to get info from Washington ESD directly.

Update us when you get resolution on this! Always curious to hear how these cases turn out.