Can you still collect Washington ESD unemployment if you get fired?

That's good to hear. They said it was performance but I was doing my best, just struggling with the workload they kept adding.

Performance issues are different from misconduct. You should be fine to collect benefits.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved? I'm worried about paying rent next month.

Mine took about 3 weeks total. File as soon as possible though, benefits start from when you file, not when you lost your job.

What happens during adjudication? That sounds scary.

It's not too bad. Washington ESD will call you and your employer separately to get both sides. Just be honest about what happened and you'll be fine.

If you need to reach Washington ESD during adjudication, I found Claimyr really helpful for getting through to an actual agent. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

I'll file today then. Thank you for the push I needed!

This is so important. I see people wait weeks thinking they need documents first.

I only had one job in the last 18 months. Do I still need all that info?

Yes, even for one job. Have your start date, end date, gross wages, and be ready to explain why you were terminated.

That sounds similar to my situation. They kept adding responsibilities without training.

Employers do this all the time unfortunately. At least unemployment is there for situations like this.

I definitely wasn't intentionally doing bad work. I was trying my hardest but they kept changing my responsibilities.

That sounds like a legitimate unemployment claim to me. Document everything you remember about the termination.

Yes! Keep any emails, write down dates and times of conversations. Could be helpful if your employer contests.

Oh no, how do you survive during adjudication? Do you get any money?

You don't get paid until it's resolved. I've been doing gig work just to eat. Really stressful.

Have you tried calling Washington ESD to check on your adjudication status? I used Claimyr when I needed to get through quickly - saved me hours of calling.

How many jobs do you have to apply to each week?

It's 3 job search activities per week in Washington. Can be applications, networking, interviews, etc.

That's good advice. I was planning to write a whole story about how unfair it was.

Save that for if you need to appeal or go to a hearing. For the initial claim, just the basic facts.

A hearing sounds terrifying. Was it like going to court?

nah its done over the phone usually. just you, your employer, and a judge asking questions

I feel you but at least the benefits exist. Better than nothing when you lose your job.

True, I'm grateful for unemployment insurance. Just wish the process wasn't so stressful.

I think I threw it away when I cleaned out my desk. Wish I had thought of that.

You might be able to find company policies online or ask former coworkers if they have a copy.

That's reassuring. I definitely wasn't doing anything wrong, just couldn't keep up with their expectations.

Sounds like you have a solid case. File that claim today!

How long do you have to file an appeal?

30 days from the date on the denial letter. Don't wait though, file as soon as you get it.

And if you need help navigating the appeal process, Claimyr can help you get through to Washington ESD agents who can explain your options.

Even if I'm not getting paid yet? That seems weird.

Yes! It keeps your claim active. If you stop filing weekly claims, you could lose benefits for those weeks even if you win.

Will do! Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice. Filing my claim right now.

Good luck! You've got this.