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

Yes, you can typically file for unemployment if you were terminated, but Washington ESD will investigate the circumstances. The key question is whether it was 'misconduct' or not. Performance issues usually don't disqualify you unless there was willful misconduct involved.

File immediately! Don't wait. Even if they try to fight it, you have rights. I got fired for 'attitude problems' last year and still got my benefits after an appeal process.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I needed to discuss my termination details during adjudication. Kept getting busy signals and disconnected calls. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Really saved me weeks of frustration trying to call on my own.

The employer can contest your claim and say it was misconduct, but you can appeal their decision. Document everything you remember about the termination - dates, witnesses, what was said. Safety complaints are usually protected activity.

ugh the whole system is rigged against workers anyway. they'll probably side with the employer like they always do

Update: I filed my claim online this morning. It says 'pending adjudication' now. How long does that usually take?

I was in almost the same situation three months ago. Got terminated for 'poor attitude' but really it was because I questioned some billing practices. Filed for unemployment and got approved after they investigated. The key is being honest about what happened but explaining your side clearly.

Wait so if you get fired you can still get unemployment? I thought only people who got laid off could get it.

Make sure you have your final paycheck details and any termination paperwork. Washington ESD will ask for specific information about your last day of work and final wages.

Been there. Got 'let go' from my retail job for being late too many times (had car trouble). Still got unemployment because it wasn't willful misconduct, just circumstances beyond my control.

Just remembered another tip - if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your case, calling right when they open at 8am usually works better than later in the day. Though like I mentioned before, services like Claimyr can save you the headache of trying to time your calls perfectly.

Don't let them intimidate you during the adjudication process. Answer questions honestly but don't volunteer information that might hurt your case. Stick to the facts about what happened.

My brother got fired for 'insubordination' too but it was really retaliation for filing a workers comp claim. He fought it and won. Document everything and don't give up!

just file and see what happens. worst case they deny it and you appeal. at least you'll know where you stand

One more thing - keep track of all your job search activities from day one. Washington ESD requires proof that you're actively looking for work, even during the adjudication period. Three job contacts per week minimum.

I used to work in HR and saw tons of these cases. 'Performance issues' is usually code for 'we don't have a good reason to fire you.' Most of the time Washington ESD sees right through it.

Whatever you do, don't badmouth your former employer during the investigation. Stay professional and factual. Let your documentation speak for itself.

Hope this works out for you. The whole process is stressful but most people who were legitimately wrongfully terminated end up getting their benefits eventually.

Final update request - let us know how it turns out! Your case could help other people in similar situations.

Good luck! Remember that standing up for safety at work is the right thing to do, regardless of what happened with your job. Don't let this discourage you from speaking up in the future.