Can u get unemployment if u get fired - Washington ESD eligibility question

Whether you can get unemployment after being fired depends on the reason. If you were fired for misconduct, Washington ESD will likely deny your claim. But if it was for poor performance or inability to do the job (not your fault), you can usually still qualify for UI benefits.

You should definitely file your claim with Washington ESD right away. Even if they initially deny it, you can appeal the decision. I got fired for 'performance issues' and Washington ESD approved my benefits after reviewing the case.

I had a similar situation and couldn't get through to Washington ESD for weeks to check on my claim status. Finally used claimyr.com to get connected to an actual agent who explained exactly what documentation they needed for my case. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

The key thing Washington ESD looks at is whether you were fired for 'willful misconduct.' Poor performance, lack of skills, or even making mistakes aren't considered misconduct if you were trying to do your job properly. You'll need to provide your side of the story when you file.

ugh the whole system is rigged against workers anyway. companies can just make up whatever reason they want and washington esd usually sides with employers

Make sure you have all your documentation ready when you file - any performance reviews, emails about your termination, witness statements if you have them. The more evidence you can provide to Washington ESD, the better.

File online at esd.wa.gov as soon as possible. Even if you think you might not qualify, let Washington ESD make that determination. The worst that happens is they say no and you can appeal.

I got fired for 'attitude problems' which was basically my boss didn't like that I questioned some unsafe practices. Washington ESD approved my claim after I explained the situation during the phone interview.

Just remember that your former employer will get a chance to respond to your claim. They'll provide their version of why you were terminated. Washington ESD will then decide if it rises to the level of misconduct that would disqualify you from benefits.

One more thing - if Washington ESD does initially deny your claim, don't give up. The appeals process exists for a reason and lots of people win on appeal even after being denied initially.

been there done that. got fired for being 'difficult' but really i was just doing my job. took 2 months but washington esd finally approved my benefits

The bottom line is that 'poor performance' and 'misconduct' are two very different things under Washington unemployment law. Poor performance generally won't disqualify you unless it was willful or you ignored clear warnings and training opportunities.

lol good luck getting through to anyone at washington esd to actually talk about your case. ive been calling for weeks

File your claim first, worry about the details later. Washington ESD will contact you if they need more information. The important thing is to get your claim started so your benefit year begins.

i got fired for 'insubordination' which sounds scary but really i just disagreed with my supervisor about how to handle a customer complaint. washington esd approved my claim after reviewing the facts

Make sure you're honest on your application about the reason for termination. Washington ESD will find out anyway when they contact your employer, so being upfront helps your credibility.

the washington esd website has a whole section about misconduct vs poor performance if you want to read more about the specific criteria they use

been following this thread and wanted to add that if you do get approved, make sure you understand the job search requirements. washington esd is pretty strict about the 3 job contacts per week rule

final thought - even if you think your case is hopeless, file anyway. ive seen people get approved in situations where they thought they had no chance. washington esd looks at each case individually

one last thing about getting through to washington esd - if you cant reach them by phone and need to talk to someone about your case, that claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. saved me weeks of frustration