Can I get ESD benefits for quitting after workplace disability discrimination in 2023?

You may actually qualify for benefits in this case. In Washington, if you quit due to what's called "good cause" - which can include discrimination based on disability - you might be eligible for UI benefits. Workplace harassment or harmful working conditions can be considered good cause for leaving a job. However, there's usually a time limit for filing. Standard claims need to be filed within 26 weeks of leaving employment, so unfortunately June 2023 would be outside that window now. It's possible there might be exceptions considering your medical circumstances though. Have you looked into Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML)? That's different from unemployment and covers situations like childbirth and recovery. You might be eligible for that instead since your situation involves medical issues.

So sorry you went through that! What that HR person said was HORRIBLE and completely unprofessional! I had something kinda similar happen at my last job where they refused to accommodate my medical condition (different than yours) and basically pushed me out. I DID get unemployment even though I technically quit. The key was proving it was a "quit with good cause" situation. But I filed right away - like the week after I left. From what I understand there's a time limit on how long you can wait to file a claim. Have you checked the ESD website to see exactly what the deadline is? Maybe call and explain your situation?

i think ur probably out of luck with regular unemploymnt but have u tried applying for disability? if ur autism is documented u might qualify especially if it impacts ur ability to work. worth looking into at least

Having worked with the ESD system extensively, I can tell you that you're likely outside the filing window for standard unemployment based on that June 2023 job. However, there are a few options you might consider: 1. PFML (Paid Family Medical Leave) - This applies to recovery from childbirth and serious health conditions. You can apply retroactively for up to 12 months after your qualifying event (C-section). 2. You could try reaching out to ESD directly to explain your situation. While rare, there are sometimes exceptions to filing deadlines for extraordinary circumstances. Your medical complications plus the discrimination aspect might warrant consideration. 3. For the discrimination issue - while it won't help with unemployment benefits now, you might want to consult with the Washington State Human Rights Commission as there's a possibility of a workplace discrimination claim. One tip: if you're having trouble reaching ESD by phone (which is common), you might want to try using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They help connect you with an actual ESD agent without waiting for hours. They have a video explaining how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. I used them when I was having issues with my claim and it saved me so much frustration.

Not super related but just wanna say that HR person should be FIRED. That's not just unprofessional, it's discriminatory and awful. You should report them to the agency management or even file a complaint with DSHS since it's a caregiver agency. They shouldn't be allowed to treat people like that, especially in a care industry!

Unfortunately, I think you've missed the window for unemployment benefits from that job. The deadline is usually within 6 months of separation, and it's been well over a year now. However, since you mentioned you got your cosmetology license, have you considered looking into any of the Work Source programs? They might be able to help you find flexible work options that could accommodate your needs while bringing in some income. Also, as others have mentioned, PFML is probably your best option right now. Washington has one of the better PFML programs in the country, and it specifically covers recovery from childbirth. The application process is completely separate from unemployment. Whatever you do, don't give up. The system is complicated, but there are resources available.

The ESD phone lines are IMPOSSIBLE!! I spent 3 weeks trying to get through about my claim last month. If u need to talk to someone try early morning like 7:59am right when they open. Or use that Claimyr thing someone mentioned, my friend said it actually works.