How long after you are fired can you collect unemployment in Washington state?

Thanks! Should I file online or call them? I've heard their phone lines are always busy.

Definitely file online at esd.wa.gov - it's much faster than trying to get through on the phone. You'll need your social security number and information about your last employer.

Have you tried using Claimyr? It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I found it at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Might be worth trying if you need to check on your adjudication status.

Never heard of that but I'm desperate at this point. Calling Washington ESD myself has been impossible.

Wait, what's adjudication? Is that something I need to worry about?

How long does adjudication usually take? I need to know if I should look for temporary work while waiting.

It varies widely - anywhere from 2-6 weeks, sometimes longer if they need more information. You should definitely keep looking for work regardless, as that's required anyway.

That's reassuring. They said it was performance but honestly I think they just wanted to get rid of higher-paid employees.

Same thing happened to me - they called it performance but really they were just cutting costs. Still got approved after adjudication.

Good to know! I was thinking about waiting until I was sure they wouldn't contest it but sounds like I should just file now.

Exactly - even if they contest it, you want your claim filed as early as possible. The effective date is when you file, not when it gets approved.

I know right? All these terms like adjudication and disqualification and weekly claims. Makes no sense when you're already stressed about losing your job.

It is overwhelming at first but once you get used to the process it gets easier. The main thing is to file weekly claims on time and keep looking for work.

How much does it cost? I'm trying to be careful with money since I don't know when I'll get benefits.

It's not free but honestly after weeks of trying to call myself, it was worth it to finally talk to someone. Check their website for current pricing.

Should I contact my employer first or just let Washington ESD handle it?

Just let Washington ESD handle it. They'll send your employer a notice about the claim and your employer can respond if they want to contest it.

Did you have issues with employers contesting your claims?

First time yes, second time no. Even when they contest it, you still have a good chance if you were fired for performance and not misconduct.

What counts as misconduct exactly? I got written up a few times but nothing major.

Misconduct is usually stuff like theft, violence, deliberate rule violations. Write-ups for performance don't usually count as misconduct.

You should try Claimyr - I mentioned it earlier. It's specifically designed to help people get through to Washington ESD when the normal phone lines are overwhelmed. Might be worth it to get an update on your adjudication.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. The uncertainty is the worst part.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

I think it's 3 job contacts per week but check the WorkSource website to be sure. You need to keep a log of your job search activities.

Have you looked into emergency assistance programs while you wait? Some counties have programs for people waiting on unemployment decisions.

I should look into that. Didn't know those existed.

Alright, you've all convinced me. I'm filing online as soon as I get home. Thanks everyone for the advice!

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims on time once you get set up, even if you're still waiting on the adjudication decision.