Can you get unemployment if you get fired - Washington ESD eligibility questions

You can absolutely still get unemployment benefits even if you were fired, it depends on the reason. Washington ESD looks at whether you were terminated for 'misconduct' or not. Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless it was willful or deliberate. I'd definitely file a claim - worst case they deny it and you can appeal.

same thing happened to me earlier this year - got fired for 'not meeting expectations' but Washington ESD approved my claim no problem. took about 3 weeks to process though

The key thing is filing your claim right away even if you're not sure. Washington ESD will investigate and make a determination. If your employer contests it, there will be an adjudication process where both sides present their case. Don't let uncertainty stop you from filing - you've earned those benefits through your work history.

Don't listen to your manager about eligibility - employers often don't know the actual rules or they're trying to discourage you from filing. Washington ESD makes the determination based on state law, not what your boss says.

OMG I'm in the same boat! Got 'laid off' last month but I think it was really because my new supervisor didn't like me. Should I mention that in my Washington ESD application or just stick to what they officially said?

The Washington ESD system is set up to help workers, not punish them. Most terminations that aren't for serious misconduct will qualify for benefits. File your claim online at esd.wa.gov and let them sort it out.

Been through this process twice unfortunately. First time I got denied initially but won on appeal because my employer couldn't prove misconduct. Second time I was approved right away. It really does depend on the specific circumstances and how well your employer documents things.

Quick question - do you have to wait a certain amount of time after getting fired to file? Or can you file immediately?

The Washington ESD FAQ says you can get benefits if you're fired for reasons other than misconduct. Performance issues, layoffs, position eliminations, etc. all typically qualify. Theft, violence, gross insubordination typically don't.

I work in HR and I can tell you that most employers don't contest unemployment claims unless it was a really clear case of misconduct. It's not worth their time and energy for performance-related terminations.

Don't overthink it - just file the claim. Washington ESD is pretty good about approving legitimate claims and you can always appeal if there's an issue. You paid into the system through your payroll taxes so you've earned the right to apply.

One thing to keep in mind - even if you get approved, you'll need to keep filing your weekly claims and doing job searches. Washington ESD has work search requirements that you need to meet to keep getting benefits.

The bottom line is that getting fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. The reason matters more than the fact that you were terminated. File your claim and let Washington ESD make the determination.