Can I go on unemployment if I get fired from my job in Washington?

That's helpful, thank you. It would just be performance issues if anything, not misconduct. How long does it usually take to find out if they approve the claim?

Usually 2-3 weeks if there are no complications. Sometimes longer if they need to investigate the circumstances of your termination.

Did they make you wait longer because you were fired vs laid off?

Not really, took about the same time as when I was laid off from my previous job. Maybe an extra week for them to review everything.

Never heard of that service before. Is it legit? I'm always nervous about third-party services for government stuff.

Yeah it's legitimate. They basically help you get through the phone queue to actually talk to a real person at Washington ESD. Much better than spending hours on hold or getting disconnected.

Good point. How quickly do I need to file after getting fired?

You should file within the first week if possible. The sooner the better because your benefit year starts when you file, not when you lost your job.

And make sure you have all your employment info ready - dates, wages, reason for separation. Makes the application process much smoother.

That's reassuring. I've never been fired before so I wasn't sure what to expect from the process.

yeah its stressful but the system is designed to help people who lose jobs through no fault of their own

This is really important info. I got fired for not meeting sales targets and was worried I wouldn't qualify.

Sales targets would definitely not be misconduct unless you were deliberately sabotaging sales or something. That's just performance.

What about if you're fired for being late too many times? Is that misconduct?

Attendance issues can be tricky. If you had legitimate reasons (transportation problems, childcare issues) it's usually not misconduct. But if you were just being irresponsible, it might be.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already worried about money if I lose my job.

It's worth it just for the time savings alone. Plus when you're dealing with unemployment benefits, getting accurate information quickly is really important.

Oh wow, I didn't know they could contest it. What happens in a hearing?

It's usually done over the phone. Both you and your employer present evidence and testimony, and an administrative law judge makes the decision. Most people represent themselves but you can have someone help you prepare.

I had to do a hearing when my employer contested my claim. It was nerve-wracking but not as bad as I thought. Just be honest and stick to the facts.

yeah the phone system is terrible but you can usually get things sorted out if you keep trying

This is exactly why I recommend Claimyr for getting through to them. The regular phone system is a nightmare but they can actually get you connected to a real person.

Maybe I should have tried that. Spent so many hours on hold for nothing.

How many jobs do you have to apply for each week?

I think it's 3 job contacts per week, but double-check the current requirements when you file. They can change these rules.

And keep detailed records of your job search! They can audit you and ask for proof of your applications.

That's encouraging. Sounds like they really do try to be fair about what counts as misconduct.

yeah they seem to err on the side of helping people unless its really obvious misconduct

Smart thinking. I wouldn't have thought to ask for that stuff.

Yeah, it's your right to have access to your personnel file. Better to get it while you're still thinking clearly rather than trying to get it later when you're stressed.

That's reassuring to hear. I was worried the system would be stacked against workers.

Don't get me wrong, it can still be frustrating and slow, but the underlying rules are pretty fair.

I can understand feeling embarrassed. There's still some stigma around unemployment even though it shouldn't be.

Exactly. It's insurance that you paid into, not charity. You've earned the right to use it if you need it.

Good advice. I'll keep that in mind if worst comes to worst.

Yeah, sometimes employers are vague about the reason which can cause problems later during the unemployment investigation.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses. I feel much more prepared now if I do end up getting fired.

Hope it doesn't come to that, but at least you know your options now. Good luck!

How exactly does it work? Do they just call for you or what?

They basically handle the waiting and get you connected to an actual Washington ESD representative. Way better than spending your whole day hitting redial.

I'll definitely keep that in mind. Sounds like dealing with Washington ESD by phone is pretty challenging.