Can you collect Washington ESD unemployment if terminated from your job?

That's a relief to hear. What counts as misconduct exactly? I was never written up or anything formal like that.

Misconduct has to be willful and work-related. Things like theft, violence, or deliberately violating company policy. Poor performance or not meeting expectations usually isn't misconduct unless you were actively refusing to do your job.

Did you have to provide any documentation from your employer? I'm worried they might try to fight my claim.

Washington ESD will contact your employer directly to get their side of the story. Just make sure you keep any emails or documentation you have about your termination.

Never heard of that service but honestly willing to try anything at this point. The Washington ESD phone lines are a nightmare.

Yeah it was a lifesaver for me. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

That's not really accurate. Washington ESD follows specific guidelines for misconduct determinations. Being terminated doesn't automatically mean denial.

Easy for you to say but when you're living it it's a different story. The system is rigged against workers.

This is making me even more nervous now. Should I even bother applying?

Okay I'm going to file today. How long does the whole process usually take?

Initial determination usually takes 2-3 weeks, but can be longer if they need to investigate. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even while it's pending.

How long is forever? I really need to know what timeline I'm looking at here.

like 6 weeks total I think? maybe more. he had to appeal the first decision but won in the end

That's actually really helpful to know. My situation was definitely more about not meeting their expectations rather than any kind of misconduct.

Exactly. Document everything you can remember about your termination meeting and any conversations leading up to it. The more details you can provide, the better.

Really? That makes me feel a bit better. My old company is pretty small so maybe they won't even bother.

Don't count on it. Employers contest claims all the time just to be spiteful.

Some do, but most larger companies have policies against contesting unless there's clear misconduct. Smaller companies vary more.

Good point. I was thinking about downplaying some of the performance stuff but you're right, honesty is probably the best policy.

Trust me on this one. Washington ESD will investigate and if your story doesn't match what your employer says, you'll be in much worse shape.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

It's worth it when you consider how much time you'd waste otherwise. Plus if you can't reach Washington ESD to resolve issues, you might not get your benefits at all.

What was different between the two situations? Trying to get a sense of what factors matter most.

First time the employer claimed I was insubordinate, second time they just said it was a layoff due to business needs. Much easier when it's clearly not misconduct.

What happens during adjudication exactly? Do they interview you or just review paperwork?

They might call you for a phone interview to get your side of the story. Be prepared to explain the circumstances of your termination in detail.

Oh I didn't even think about that part. How many jobs do you have to apply for each week?

It's usually 3 job search activities per week, but can vary based on your situation. The Washington ESD website has all the details about what counts as a valid job search activity.

Good to know the appeal option is there. Hopefully it won't come to that but nice to have a backup plan.

Exactly. Don't give up if the initial decision doesn't go your way. The appeal process gives you a chance to present your case more thoroughly.

I'm definitely filing today then. Thanks everyone for all the advice, this has been really helpful!

Good luck! The process can be frustrating but stick with it. Most people who were terminated for performance reasons do end up getting approved.

I'll keep that in mind if I run into phone issues. Hopefully the online application process goes smoothly.

The initial application is usually fine online, but if you need to talk to someone about your specific case, that's where the phone problems start.

You're right, I'm probably stressing more than I need to. Going to file my claim now and see what happens.

That's the right attitude. The system isn't perfect but it generally works out for people who were legitimately let go through no fault of their own.

Will do! Fingers crossed it goes smoothly. Thanks again everyone for all the support and advice.

Rooting for you! Remember to keep filing those weekly claims even while waiting for the initial determination.