Can you get unemployment if you were discharged from your job in Washington?

That's reassuring to hear. How long does the adjudication process usually take? I'm worried about my bills piling up.

It can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks depending on how complex your case is. They'll contact both you and your employer to get statements.

Did your employer fight it at all? I'm worried they might contest my claim.

They did contest it initially but after I provided documentation showing I had medical reasons for some absences, Washington ESD sided with me.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money being unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site for current info. For me, getting through to resolve my adjudication issue quickly was worth it since I was waiting weeks for an answer.

They said it was performance related but I feel like they set me up to fail. I never received proper training and my supervisor was never available for questions.

Those are exactly the kind of details you should document and provide to Washington ESD if they request a statement. Lack of training or support can work in your favor.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - the phone lines are impossible otherwise. Have you tried calling right when they open at 8am?

yeah tried that too, still busy signals or get disconnected after waiting forever

Good point, I almost forgot about that. The weekly claims are still required even if I'm not getting paid yet?

Exactly. Keep filing them every week and keep track of your job search activities too since you'll need to report those.

If you believe you were terminated in retaliation for raising safety concerns, that could actually strengthen your case. Document everything and be specific about dates and incidents.

I kept emails and photos of the safety issues. Hopefully that helps my case.

Yes, you have the right to appeal within 30 days of the determination. The appeal goes to an administrative law judge who will hold a hearing.

Is it worth getting a lawyer for the appeal or can you handle it yourself?

Many people represent themselves successfully. The process is designed to be accessible to claimants without legal representation.

That's encouraging. I was really worried I was automatically disqualified just because I was fired.

Should I try to gather any documentation before I file, or wait to see if they ask for it?

Start gathering anything relevant now - performance reviews, emails, documentation of training (or lack thereof), witness statements if you have them.

okay fine you convinced me, gonna check out that claimyr thing. anything's better than this endless calling

Let us know how it goes! I might need to try that too if my adjudication drags on.

The industry doesn't matter - Washington ESD applies the same standards for misconduct regardless of whether it's retail, office work, manufacturing, etc.

They typically contact the employer directly rather than individual coworkers. However, if there are specific witnesses mentioned in statements, they might be contacted.

That's a relief. I don't want to cause problems for people who still work there.

Be thorough but stick to facts. Include dates, specific incidents, and any relevant policies. Avoid emotional language and focus on what actually happened.

Thanks, that's helpful. I'll try to outline the key points before writing my statement.

I actually do have some positive reviews from earlier in the year. Good thinking!

Layoffs are typically due to business reasons (lack of work, budget cuts) and usually qualify for benefits immediately. Discharges are for cause and require adjudication to determine if there was misconduct.

Ah okay, that makes sense. So discharge cases take longer to process?

Generally yes, because they need to investigate the circumstances rather than just verify the separation date.

Misconduct usually involves willful or deliberate violation of rules, while poor performance is typically about ability or competence. Things like attendance problems, insubordination, or violating safety rules could be misconduct.

So if you're just bad at your job but trying your best, that's not misconduct?

Correct. Simple incompetence or inability to perform the job duties typically doesn't constitute misconduct under Washington unemployment law.

That's great news! How long did the whole process take from filing to approval?

About 5 weeks total. The waiting was the worst part but it worked out in the end.

Alright, you've convinced me. My adjudication is going on week 4 and I need answers. Going to check them out today.

Good luck! Remember to be honest and thorough in your application. You've got this!