Fired during sick leave with doctor's note - can I qualify for ESD benefits?

Yes, unfortunately Washington is an at-will employment state, which means they can terminate you for almost any reason during probation (or even after), as long as it's not discrimination against a protected class. A doctor's note doesn't automatically protect your job, especially during probation. The good news is that being fired for being sick usually doesn't count as misconduct for ESD purposes, so you should still qualify for benefits. Apply as soon as possible on eServices and make sure to be very specific that you were terminated while on documented medical leave. When they ask for the reason for separation, choose 'discharged' and explain the situation exactly as it happened.

THEY CAN DO WHATEVER THEY WANT DURING PROBATION!! Its complete BS but ive seen it happen to so many people. The whole system is rigged against workers. My roomate got fired last yr for missing 2 days with the flu even tho he had a doctors note too. Definitely apply for benefits tho - ESD might side with you since you had medical documentation. Make sure you appeal if they deny you the first time!!!

Apply for unemployment right away. The key factor that ESD will look at is whether your absence was justified (which it was with the doctor's note) and whether you followed the proper call-in procedures for your workplace. If you followed their attendance policy for reporting absences, you have a strong case for benefits approval. When you apply, make sure to provide detailed information about: 1. The exact dates you were absent 2. How and when you notified your employer 3. That you had medical documentation 4. That you were terminated specifically for this absence Be prepared for your employer to possibly contest your claim. If that happens, you'll go through the adjudication process where both sides present their case.

Hopefully this helps but my sister went thru something similar last yr! She got fired during probation after missing work for a medical issue. She applied for ESD benefits online right away and got approved in about 2 weeks. Just be super honest about everything when you file and don't leave any details out. Make sure you do your weekly claims even while waiting for the initial decision.

If you're having trouble getting through to ESD (which you probably will), try Claimyr.com - it helped me get through when I was in adjudication for like 6 weeks and couldn't reach anyone. They have a service that helps you connect with an ESD agent without waiting on hold forever. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Worth it when you're desperate to talk to someone about your claim status. I literally tried calling for 3 weeks straight before finding this.

just wondering did u check ur employee handbook? some companies hav specific rules about probation period and they mite actually mention that any absence (even with doctors note) can lead to termination. not saying its right but might explain why they thought they could do this

Since you're applying for the first time, here are some important things to know: 1. After your initial application, you must file weekly claims every week, even if your application is still pending 2. You'll need to complete 3 job search activities each week and log them 3. Have your employment history for the last 18 months ready (company names, addresses, dates worked) 4. Be prepared to upload your doctor's note as supporting documentation 5. If your claim goes to adjudication, continue filing weekly claims while you wait And don't worry too much - the fact that you have documentation from a doctor puts you in a much better position than many people who get terminated during probation.

You need to start job searching and logging your activities as soon as you file your initial claim. Each week when you file your weekly claim, you'll need to report whether you completed your required job search activities (which is currently 3 per week). ESD may audit your job search log at any time, so keep detailed records of each application, including: - Company name - Date of application/contact - Position applied for - Contact method (online, in-person, etc.) - Contact person if applicable - Result/follow-up Some people get tripped up on this requirement and lose benefits, so take it seriously from day one.

Yes, interviews absolutely count as job search activities! Here's what counts: 1. Job applications (online or paper) 2. Job interviews (phone, video, or in-person) 3. Creating/updating profiles on employment websites 4. Registering with WorkSource 5. Attending job fairs 6. Taking skills assessments related to job seeking 7. Meeting with career counselors So an interview is definitely a valid activity. Just document all the details as mentioned above. Good luck with your claim and job search!