How long do you have to apply for unemployment after being fired - Washington ESD deadline?

That's a relief about no hard deadline. So if I file this week I can get benefits starting from this past Sunday?

Exactly, but only if you're found eligible. If you were fired for misconduct they might deny your claim initially.

Ugh that sucks. I'm definitely filing today then. The Washington ESD website is so confusing though.

Yeah their site is a nightmare. Took me forever to figure out how to navigate it properly.

Never heard of that service. Does it actually work? I'm dreading having to call if I run into problems.

Yeah it works well. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

There's no deadline to file your initial claim, but there are deadlines for other things like appeals if you get denied. The key is you can't get benefits for weeks before you file.

ok that makes more sense. so basically the deadline is dont wait if you want money lol

They said it was due to 'performance issues' but honestly I think it was more about budget cuts. Should I mention that in my application?

Absolutely mention that. Performance issues alone usually don't disqualify you unless there was willful misconduct involved. Budget cuts would actually support your case.

6 months?! Why did you wait so long?

Had another job lined up that fell through. Didn't think I'd need unemployment but here we are.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. The regular phone lines are impossible. At least with their service you can actually talk to someone about your claim status.

Might have to try that. This waiting game is killing me financially.

Do I need pay stubs or anything like that for the application?

Not for the initial application but keep them handy. You might need them if they request documentation during adjudication.

What made the second experience better besides filing sooner?

I was better prepared with documentation and knew what to expect. Also filed my weekly claims on time every week.

I feel your pain. The phone system is absolutely terrible. Have you tried calling right at 8am when they open?

YES I've tried everything. Early morning, lunch time, different days. Nothing works.

So I won't get paid for this week even if I file today?

Correct. The first week is always a waiting period. But you'll get paid starting the second week if you're eligible.

Good point. I'll just tell them exactly what happened and let them decide.

Exactly. The truth usually comes out anyway and honesty works in your favor during adjudication.

What other ways? I'd rather avoid the phone system if possible.

You can submit questions through the secure messaging system on your account. Response times vary but it's usually faster than calling.

What's been the most challenging part for you?

The job search requirements mostly. Having to document everything and prove you're actively looking for work.

That's probably Claimyr. I mentioned it earlier - it actually works. Not too good to be true, just a smart solution to a broken phone system.

Might be worth a shot. I'm tired of wasting my whole day trying to get through.

Good advice. I'll take my time with the application but get it done today.

Perfect approach. Double-check everything before submitting and you'll save yourself headaches later.

Sadly true. Already stressed about rent next month.

Been there. Unemployment helps but it's not gonna cover everything. Good luck with the job search.

They used the word 'terminated' but said it was performance related. Is that considered fired or laid off?

That sounds like fired for cause. You'll likely go through adjudication but performance issues alone usually don't disqualify you unless there was misconduct.

2 weeks isn't too bad. Did you have any complications with your claim?

Nope, pretty straightforward. Being honest about everything and having my documentation ready helped a lot.