Can you draw unemployment if you are fired from your job in Washington?

Yes, you can absolutely file for unemployment even if you were fired! The key is whether you were terminated for 'misconduct' or not. Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless they were willful or repeated violations after warnings. Since you said you had no write-ups, that's actually good for your case.

I went through this exact situation last year. Got fired for 'not meeting expectations' but Washington ESD approved my claim because my employer couldn't prove it was misconduct. The adjudication process took about 3 weeks but I got my benefits retroactively.

Here's what I learned when I had trouble reaching Washington ESD about my claim status - there's actually a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that can help you get through to an actual agent. They have this demo video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Might be worth checking out if you need to talk to someone about your specific situation.

ALWAYS file even if you're not sure! Washington ESD will investigate and make the determination. Being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you - it depends on the reason. Performance issues are usually not considered misconduct.

What exactly did they say when they fired you? The specific reason matters a lot for your unemployment claim.

i got fired 3 months ago and got my benefits no problem. as long as you didnt do anything really bad like steal or show up drunk you should be ok

Just to clarify the misconduct definition - Washington ESD considers misconduct to be things like theft, violence, excessive unexcused absences, or willful violation of company policies. Poor performance alone typically doesn't qualify as misconduct.

The whole system is rigged anyway. Employers can fire you for any reason but then fight your unemployment claim. It's ridiculous.

Make sure you file ASAP! There's a waiting period and you want to get that started as soon as possible. You can file online through the Washington ESD website.

I'm going through adjudication right now for the same thing. My employer is fighting it but my lawyer says I have a good case since I was never formally disciplined.

Don't let them intimidate you! File your claim and let Washington ESD sort it out. That's what they're there for.

If your employer contests the claim, you might have to do a phone hearing. Don't panic if that happens - just be honest about what happened.

Pro tip: When you file, be specific about why you were fired. Don't just say 'performance' - explain that you received no warnings or write-ups.

I had a friend who used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. She was able to get through to Washington ESD and get her claim status updated. Might be worth it if you run into any issues.

The most important thing is to file quickly and be completely honest. Washington ESD will investigate and make a fair decision based on the facts.

Keep all your documentation - pay stubs, any emails about your termination, employee handbook, etc. You might need them if there's an appeal.

Remember that even if they deny your initial claim, you can appeal the decision. Don't give up if the first answer isn't what you want to hear.

UPDATE: I filed my claim this morning and it went through! Now I just have to wait for them to process it. Thanks again everyone for the encouragement.

Just wanted to add that if you do end up needing to talk to Washington ESD about your claim, that Claimyr thing people mentioned really does work. Saved me a ton of time when I was dealing with my adjudication.

Good luck with your claim! Based on what you described, you should be fine. Performance issues without misconduct usually get approved.