Can you file unemployment if you were fired - Washington ESD eligibility question

That's such a relief to hear! So performance issues wouldn't be considered misconduct? They said I wasn't meeting my targets but I was really trying.

Right, just not meeting performance standards isn't misconduct. Misconduct would be things like stealing, fighting, deliberately not following safety rules, or being insubordinate.

How long did the appeal process take? I'm worried about the gap in income.

Mine took about 6 weeks total but I got back pay for the whole period once I won. Just make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even during the appeal.

Is that legitimate? I'm desperate to talk to someone at Washington ESD but I don't want to get scammed.

Yeah it's totally legit. They don't ask for any personal info, just help you get through the phone queue. I was skeptical too but it actually worked.

I've heard good things about Claimyr from other people too. The phone system at Washington ESD is just impossible to get through otherwise.

Should I mention that I think the real reason was because I couldn't work overtime? Or just stick to what they officially said?

Be honest about both - what they said officially and what you believe the real reason was. Washington ESD needs the full picture to make a fair decision.

That's not really true. Washington has pretty worker-friendly unemployment laws compared to a lot of states. Most people who file actually do get approved.

maybe but they make it so hard to even apply and get through to anyone

That gives me hope! Did you have to provide any documentation about your car problems?

I had some repair receipts that I uploaded through the Washington ESD portal. Not sure if they even looked at them but it couldn't hurt.

How do I know which category mine falls into? They just said 'performance issues' in my termination letter.

Performance issues are usually 'without cause' unless you were deliberately underperforming or ignoring training. Sounds like you were trying your best but couldn't meet their expectations due to scheduling conflicts.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

I think it's 3 job search activities per week but check the Washington ESD website for the exact requirements. Can include applications, networking, job fairs, etc.

Good point, I should probably file today. Better to have the application in than wait around wondering.

Exactly. You can always provide additional information later if Washington ESD needs it for your claim.

They interviewed his supervisor too? I'm worried about what my manager might say.

Yeah but that actually worked in his favor because his supervisor couldn't prove it was misconduct, just that he didn't want to work extra hours.

How much does it cost though? I'm already stressed about money.

It's worth checking out their site claimyr.com - they focus on the value of actually reaching an agent rather than the cost. When you're trying to get thousands in benefits approved, it makes sense.

That's encouraging. It sounds like Washington ESD really does look at the full situation, not just the fact that you were fired.

Exactly - they're required to determine if the termination was the employee's fault or not. Lots of firings aren't actually the employee's fault.

My manager did seem pretty confident that I wouldn't be able to get benefits. Makes me wonder if she was just trying to discourage me.

Employers don't decide who gets unemployment - Washington ESD does. Always file and let them make the determination based on the facts.

This is so helpful to hear from someone who knows the rules! I feel much more confident about filing now.

Good luck! Remember to be completely honest in your application and provide any documentation you have about your termination.

Thanks! I have my last pay stub and my termination letter. Is there anything else I should gather?

Those should be good to start. You might need more info later if your claim goes to adjudication, but that's enough to file the initial application.

That's faster than I expected! I was worried it would take months.

It's usually pretty quick if there are no issues with your claim. The delays happen when they need to investigate the circumstances of your termination.

Thank you! It's nice to know other people have been through this and came out okay.

The unemployment system exists exactly for situations like this. You paid into it through your payroll taxes, so don't feel bad about using it when you need it.

I'm definitely going to check that out. I have so many questions and the website doesn't cover everything.

Yeah having an actual person explain things makes such a difference. The agents are usually pretty helpful once you can actually reach them.

I will! Thanks everyone for all the encouragement and advice. I'm going to file my application tonight.

Good for you! Remember to keep filing your weekly claims even if your initial claim is still being processed.

Will do. This forum has been so much more helpful than trying to figure it out on my own. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to respond.