Can you get unemployment benefits if you've been fired from your job in Washington?

You can definitely still get unemployment if you were fired, but it depends on the reason. Washington ESD looks at whether it was 'misconduct' or not. Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless you were deliberately not doing your job. You should apply right away and let them make the determination.

I was in the same situation last year - got fired for 'not meeting expectations' but still got approved for benefits. The key is being honest on your application and letting Washington ESD investigate if your employer contests it.

Just went through this myself. Applied online and got stuck in adjudication hell for weeks trying to reach someone at Washington ESD to explain my situation. Couldn't get through on the phone no matter how many times I called.

Important thing to remember - even if you were fired, you still have the right to apply for benefits. Don't let your employer convince you otherwise. Washington ESD will make the final determination based on their investigation.

been fired from 3 jobs and got unemployment every time lol. as long as you werent stealing or doing drugs or something crazy you should be fine

The process is pretty straightforward: apply online at esd.wa.gov, answer all questions honestly about why you were terminated, and then wait for Washington ESD to review your case. If your employer contests it, they'll do an adjudication interview.

Just want to add that you should apply ASAP even if you're not sure you qualify. There's a waiting period anyway, and if you wait too long you might miss out on benefits you're entitled to.

Washington ESD will look at whether you had 'good cause' for any actions that led to your firing. Even if you made mistakes, if you were trying to do your job in good faith, that usually doesn't count as misconduct.

I got fired for attendance issues but still got approved because I had medical documentation for my absences. Even if there were legitimate reasons for your termination, you might still qualify depending on the circumstances.

One thing to watch out for - if your employer fights your claim, the process can take longer. But don't let that discourage you from applying. Most employers don't actually contest unless it was serious misconduct.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS BROKEN! I was fired for bogus reasons and it took 2 MONTHS to get my benefits. Meanwhile I'm behind on rent and struggling to feed my family. Washington ESD needs to fix their processes!

For anyone struggling to get through to Washington ESD during their adjudication, I had success with Claimyr.com. They help you get connected to an actual agent instead of sitting on hold forever. Saved me weeks of frustration.

Quick tip - when you file your claim, be very specific about why you were fired. Don't just say 'performance issues' - explain what specific performance concerns were raised and whether you received proper training or feedback.

I was fired for 'not being a team player' which was basically code for not putting up with a toxic work environment. Still got my benefits because Washington ESD saw through the employer's vague reasoning.

Remember you can also appeal if you get denied initially. The appeals process gives you another chance to present your case if Washington ESD makes an unfavorable determination.

Just to add some perspective - I work in HR and most terminations for performance or attendance don't rise to the level of misconduct that would disqualify someone from benefits. The bar is pretty high for misconduct.

Bottom line - apply for your benefits. Don't let being fired scare you away from getting the help you're entitled to while you look for new work. Washington ESD will sort out the details.

One more thing - make sure you start filing your weekly claims right away even if your initial claim is still being reviewed. You don't want to miss out on any weeks you're eligible for.

Also remember that getting fired doesn't affect your job search requirements. You'll still need to do your work search activities and log them in your WorkSourceWA account once you start receiving benefits.

Had a friend who got fired and was told by her employer she couldn't get unemployment. She didn't apply for 3 months because she believed them. When she finally did apply, she lost out on all those weeks of benefits. Don't make the same mistake!

I went through something similar when I was terminated for "not meeting goals" even though I was never given clear performance metrics or coaching. The key thing is that Washington ESD distinguishes between misconduct (which disqualifies you) and just being a poor fit or not meeting expectations (which usually doesn't). Since you mentioned lack of proper training and feedback, that actually works in your favor - it shows the employer didn't give you adequate support to succeed. Apply immediately and be honest about the circumstances. The worst case is they deny you and you can appeal, but given what you've described, you'll likely be approved.