Can you file unemployment if you get fired from your job in Washington?

That's reassuring to hear! Do I need to mention the safety complaint when I file my claim?

Absolutely mention it. Document everything you can remember about the safety issues and when you reported them.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved?

About 2 weeks, but they did call my former employer to verify the termination reason.

Have you tried using Claimyr? I found it at claimyr.com and it actually got me through to an agent. There's even a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work or is it some kind of scam?

It's legit - it just helps you get through the phone queue faster. Way better than hitting redial 200 times.

Already started the application online. It's asking for a lot of details about why I was terminated.

Be honest but focus on the performance issues they cited, not any workplace drama. Keep it factual.

That's not really accurate. Washington ESD approves most claims unless there's clear misconduct involved.

yeah right, tell that to my cousin who got denied for being 5 minutes late three times

Usually 1-2 weeks for the interview call. Make sure you answer when they call - if you miss it, it can delay everything.

They called me on a Tuesday afternoon around 2pm. Have your employment records ready.

Misconduct is willful violation of company policy, theft, violence, excessive unexcused absences - stuff like that. Poor performance usually isn't misconduct unless you were deliberately doing bad work.

good to know, thanks for explaining

I documented everything in emails to my supervisor and HR. Should I include copies with my claim?

Keep those ready for the eligibility interview. Don't send them unless they specifically ask for documentation.

I used that Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier and it worked great. Got me connected to an agent in like 10 minutes instead of spending all day calling.

Alright I'll check it out, thanks

That gives me hope. Performance issues seem way less serious than attendance problems.

Yeah, especially if you can show it might have been retaliation for your safety complaints.

Good point, I need to set up reminders for that

How often do employers actually contest unemployment claims?

Maybe 20-30% of the time in my experience. Companies with good HR departments often don't bother unless it was clear misconduct.

How long were you on unemployment?

about 4 months. the job search requirement kept me motivated to keep looking

Is that the same as the job search log I keep hearing about?

WorkSource registration is separate from your weekly job search activities, but both are required.

Thanks, it really is overwhelming trying to figure all this out

What was your appeal process like?

Had to do a phone hearing with an administrative law judge. Took about 6 weeks total but I got approved and received back pay.

Just looked at their demo video - that's actually pretty clever how it works

Great news! Sounds like you presented your case well.

That's awesome! The fact that they focused on the timeline is a good sign.

Keeping my fingers crossed for you!

Glad it helped! This community has been amazing.

Congratulations! Great outcome and good advice for others.

Excellent news! Your experience will help others going through similar situations.

So happy for you! Proof that the system does work when you have good documentation.