How to file for unemployment after being fired - Washington ESD process?

You can file immediately - don't wait! Go to esd.wa.gov and start your application right away. Being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. The key is whether you were terminated for misconduct or not. Performance issues usually aren't considered misconduct unless they involve willful violations of company policy.

Make sure you have all your employment info ready when you file - dates of employment, employer contact info, reason for separation, etc. Washington ESD will ask for all of this during the application process.

I went through this exact same thing last year. Filed immediately after being fired and it took about 3 weeks to get my first payment. The hardest part was actually getting through to Washington ESD when I had questions. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual person at Washington ESD. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

IMPORTANT: Be 100% honest about why you were fired when you fill out the application. Washington ESD will contact your employer anyway, so if your stories don't match it could cause problems. Even if you disagree with their reason, just state what they told you.

ugh the whole system is such a mess. i got fired 6 months ago and it took FOREVER to get benefits. good luck dealing with washington esd they're impossible to reach

Don't let the negative comments scare you! Many claims go through without any issues. The key things to remember: file immediately, be honest about separation reason, and start looking for work right away since you'll need to meet job search requirements.

I'm in the same boat - got fired last month and still waiting for my first payment. My claim has been in adjudication for 3 weeks now. The waiting is killing me financially.

For anyone having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, I had success with Claimyr recently. It's a service that helps you get through to actual agents. Saved me hours of calling and redialing.

Quick update - I filed my claim online and it was actually pretty straightforward. Now I'm just waiting to hear back from Washington ESD. Fingers crossed it doesn't take too long!

Just wanted to add that if your employer does contest your claim, don't panic. You'll get a chance to tell your side of the story. I got fired for 'attitude problems' but still got approved because it wasn't willful misconduct.

Been through this multiple times unfortunately. The most important thing is to file immediately and then be patient. Washington ESD moves slowly but they'll get to your claim eventually.

Pro tip: screenshot everything when you file online. Save confirmation numbers, print out your application, keep records of everything. If there are any issues later you'll need proof of what you submitted.

Does anyone know if there's a waiting period before benefits start? I heard something about a waiting week but I'm not sure if that's still a thing.

I got fired for being late too many times and still got unemployment. As long as it's not gross misconduct like stealing or violence, you'll probably be okay. Performance issues rarely disqualify you.

Make sure to apply for jobs RIGHT AWAY even before your claim is approved. You need to show you're actively looking for work from day one. Keep detailed records of every application.

The Washington ESD website can be confusing but stick with it. If you get stuck on any part of the application, there are help links throughout the process.

One more thing - if you worked in multiple states recently, make sure you file in the right state. Washington ESD can only pay benefits on wages earned in Washington.

Getting fired sucks but at least you can collect unemployment while you look for something better. Just remember to file your weekly claims every week even if you haven't heard anything yet.

I had to use Claimyr too when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Worth every penny to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD instead of calling 100 times a day.

Don't stress too much about it. Most people who get fired for performance reasons have no problem getting unemployment benefits. The system is designed to help people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.