Can I collect Washington ESD unemployment if I get fired for poor performance?

Yes, you can absolutely file! Performance issues usually don't disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. The key distinction is whether you were fired for 'misconduct' versus just not meeting performance standards. Poor performance alone typically doesn't constitute misconduct under Washington ESD rules.

I got fired for performance issues at my warehouse job last year and still got approved for UI benefits. Took about 3 weeks for adjudication but they approved it no problem.

File your claim ASAP - you have a good case. Washington ESD looks at whether the termination was for 'misconduct connected with work.' Poor performance, inability to meet standards, or lack of skills generally don't qualify as misconduct. The fact that you received warnings shows they were trying to help you improve.

I had a similar situation trying to reach Washington ESD about my claim status. Couldn't get through on the phone for weeks. Finally used claimyr.com to get connected to an actual agent - they have this service that calls you back when an agent is available. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Made the whole process so much easier.

MAKE SURE you document everything about your termination. Write down exactly what they told you, any warnings you received, dates, etc. If they try to fight your claim you'll need that info.

Performance issues vs misconduct is the key. I work in HR and we don't contest UI claims for performance unless there was clear policy violation or insubordination involved.

ugh the whole system is so confusing. i got fired from my last job too but was too scared to file because i thought they'd automatically deny me

Been through this exact situation. Filed my claim online and got approved within 2 weeks. No issues at all. The employer didn't even respond to Washington ESD's inquiry.

Make sure you understand the difference between being fired for cause vs poor performance. Cause usually means theft, harassment, policy violations - stuff that's your fault. Poor performance is different and usually doesn't disqualify you.

Also remember you'll need to do job searches every week once you start claiming. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week.

I've been following this thread and it's really helpful. I'm in a similar boat but was fired for 'attitude problems' according to my boss. Think that's misconduct?

Quick update - I mentioned claimyr.com earlier and just wanted to say it really does work. Used it again this week to check on another issue and got connected within an hour instead of spending all day redialing.

The Washington ESD adjudication process can be nerve-wracking but most performance-related terminations get approved. Just be patient and honest in your responses.

One thing to watch out for - some employers will try to claim it was misconduct even when it wasn't, hoping you won't appeal. If you get denied, definitely appeal if you know it was just performance issues.

Performance terminations are pretty common in retail. Most of the time Washington ESD approves these claims because it's not willful misconduct.

Just remember to file your weekly claims even if your initial claim is under review. You don't want to miss any weeks.

I got fired for performance at my call center job and had no issues getting approved. Just took a few weeks for them to review everything.

The system actually works pretty well for legitimate claims. Don't let fear stop you from filing if you were terminated for performance reasons.

Best of luck with your claim! Performance issues are totally different from misconduct in Washington ESD's eyes. You should be fine.

One more tip - if you do need to contact Washington ESD directly about your claim, that claimyr service I mentioned earlier has been a lifesaver. Way better than trying to get through on your own.