Do you collect unemployment if you get fired - Washington ESD eligibility question

It depends on the reason for termination. If you were fired for 'misconduct' Washington ESD will likely deny your claim. But if it was for performance issues, attendance, or company restructuring you can usually still get benefits. The key is whether it was misconduct or just not being a good fit for the job.

I got fired from my last job for being late too many times and still got approved for UI benefits. Washington ESD said it wasn't considered misconduct since I wasn't trying to be malicious, just had transportation issues. You should definitely apply.

File your claim right away regardless. Even if your employer contests it, you have the right to an appeal hearing. I've seen people win appeals even when the initial claim was denied. Washington ESD has to prove misconduct, not just that you were terminated.

I've been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my claim that's stuck in adjudication after being fired. The phone system is impossible - I get disconnected every time I finally get through the queue. Found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that actually got me connected to an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Finally got my issue resolved after 3 weeks of trying on my own.

BEING FIRED DOESN'T AUTOMATICALLY DISQUALIFY YOU!!! This is a huge misconception. Washington ESD looks at the reason for termination. Misconduct = no benefits. Poor performance, layoffs, company issues = you can still get benefits. File your claim immediately and let them sort it out.

The adjudication process can take forever though. My claim sat in pending status for 5 weeks while they investigated my termination. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even while it's pending or you'll lose those weeks.

Had a similar situation last year - terminated for 'not meeting expectations' after 18 months with no prior issues. Washington ESD approved my claim because my employer couldn't prove misconduct. The burden of proof is on them to show you did something wrong intentionally.

just apply already, worst case they say no and you appeal. i got fired for attendance issues and got approved. washington esd is usually pretty fair about these things unless you did something really bad

Make sure you're honest on your application about the reason for separation. If you lie and they find out during the investigation, that's automatic disqualification. Better to be truthful and let them make the determination.

I'm going through the same thing right now. Got terminated 3 weeks ago for 'performance issues' but really think it was because I complained about safety violations. My claim is still in adjudication. Has anyone dealt with a wrongful termination situation?

The key thing to remember is that Washington ESD uses a 'misconduct' standard. Simple poor performance, personality conflicts, or not being the right fit doesn't rise to the level of misconduct. You have to have willfully violated company policy or engaged in behavior that harmed the employer.

I used Claimyr too when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD about my termination case. Took them less than an hour to get me connected to an agent who explained exactly what was happening with my claim. Would definitely recommend it if you're having trouble reaching them.

Been there. Got fired from my retail job for 'poor attitude' which was really just me standing up for myself against an abusive manager. Washington ESD approved my claim after investigating. Don't let your employer intimidate you into not filing.

word of advice - start your job search right away even if your claim is still pending. washington esd requires you to be actively looking for work and they can ask for proof. keep a log of where you apply

I got let go for 'not being a team player' last month and my claim was approved within 2 weeks. Washington ESD said that wasn't misconduct, just a personality conflict. Your situation sounds similar - performance issues without documented warnings usually don't qualify as misconduct.

Quick update - I filed my claim online this morning and already got confirmation that it's processing. Thanks everyone for the advice and encouragement! I was getting really stressed about this whole situation.

For anyone else reading this - I tried calling Washington ESD for 3 weeks straight with no luck. Finally tried Claimyr and got connected to an agent the same day. The agent was able to explain my adjudication status and what documents they needed. Highly recommend if you're stuck.

Remember that even if your initial claim gets denied, you have the right to appeal. I've seen people win appeals even when the initial determination went against them. Don't give up if you get a denial letter.

This whole thread has been super helpful. I'm in a similar boat - got 'laid off' but it feels more like I was targeted. Filing my claim today based on all this advice. Fingers crossed!

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone who shared their experiences. It really helps to know you're not alone when going through this process. The unemployment system can be confusing and intimidating, but this community makes it feel less overwhelming.