Can you get unemployment benefits if you get fired - Washington ESD eligibility question

You can still qualify for unemployment even if you were fired, it depends on the reason. Washington ESD distinguishes between being fired for 'misconduct' vs other reasons. Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless it was willful or you ignored repeated warnings.

I got fired from my retail job 6 months ago for being late too many times and still got approved for benefits. The key is whether it was misconduct or not. Poor performance usually isn't considered misconduct by Washington ESD standards.

File immediately don't wait. Even if there's a question about eligibility, Washington ESD needs time to process and investigate. You can always appeal if they deny you initially. I had to call them multiple times during my case but couldn't get through the phone lines for weeks. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

DEFINITELY apply! I was convinced I wouldn't qualify because I got fired but turns out my employer couldn't prove misconduct. Washington ESD approved my claim after adjudication period. The worst they can do is say no but at least you'll know for sure.

The Washington ESD handbook says misconduct has to be a willful violation of job duties or standards. Just being bad at your job or making mistakes isn't usually enough for them to deny benefits. Your employer has to prove you deliberately did something wrong.

One thing to remember is that even if you're approved, there might be a waiting period depending on the circumstances. But definitely worth applying to get the process started.

i got fired last year for attendance issues and still got UI after they investigated. took forever to get someone on the phone at washington esd though, kept getting busy signals

Your employer will likely contest the claim if they think they can prove misconduct, so be prepared for that possibility. But don't let it discourage you from applying. Many employers contest automatically even when they don't have strong grounds.

Been through this exact situation twice unfortunately. First time I didn't apply thinking I was automatically disqualified for being fired. Second time I applied immediately and got benefits. Learn from my mistake!

Make sure you have all your employment information ready when you apply - dates of employment, reason for separation, supervisor names, etc. Washington ESD will need all those details for the initial application.

The online application is pretty straightforward but make sure you're honest about everything. They will verify information with your employer so any inconsistencies will cause problems later.

Don't stress too much about it. I know several people who got fired and still received unemployment. As long as it wasn't for gross misconduct you should be fine.

One more thing - if you do get stuck trying to reach Washington ESD by phone, seriously consider that Claimyr service I mentioned. I was skeptical at first but it really works for getting through their phone system.

Applied online last week after getting terminated for 'not meeting expectations' and already got my first payment. Don't overthink it, just apply and let the process work.

The unemployment system exists for situations exactly like yours. You paid into it through your payroll taxes so you've earned the right to apply. Don't let employer intimidation keep you from claiming benefits you're entitled to.

File tonight if you can. The sooner you apply the sooner you'll know if you qualify. Even if there's an adjudication period, at least the clock will be ticking.

Had a similar experience with micromanaging supervisors who seemed to be building a case. Got fired for 'attitude problems' but Washington ESD saw right through it and approved my claim.

Bottom line - Washington ESD wants to help people who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Being fired for performance isn't your fault unless you were deliberately sabotaging things.

Update us once you apply! Always good to hear how these situations turn out for people in similar circumstances.