How to get unemployment if you get fired from your job in Washington state

Yes, you can absolutely get unemployment if you're fired, as long as it wasn't for misconduct. 'Performance issues' usually don't count as misconduct unless you were deliberately not doing your job. You should file your claim with Washington ESD as soon as possible - you can do it online at esd.wa.gov.

I went through this exact same thing last year. Got fired for 'not meeting expectations' after working at a retail store for 18 months. Washington ESD approved my claim after about 3 weeks of adjudication. The key is that getting fired for inability to do the job is different from getting fired for willful misconduct.

Here's what you need to know about filing after being terminated: 1) File immediately - don't wait 2) Be completely honest about the termination 3) Gather any documentation you have (employee handbook, emails, etc.) 4) If Washington ESD needs to investigate (adjudication), it can take 2-6 weeks. The employer has to prove misconduct, not just poor performance.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to file your claim or check on status, I recently discovered this service called Claimyr that helps you actually reach a live agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It was a lifesaver when I needed to talk to someone about my adjudication status.

Make sure you file your weekly claims even while your initial claim is being adjudicated. A lot of people don't realize you have to keep filing weekly even if you haven't been approved yet. You can backdate if needed but it's easier to just stay current.

Been there, done that. Got canned from my last job for 'attitude problems' which was basically just me questioning some sketchy safety practices. Washington ESD approved my claim because standing up for safety isn't misconduct. Your situation sounds even more clear-cut.

wait so if you get fired you can still get unemployment?? I thought that was only if you got laid off! This changes everything for me, I've been scared to apply

Documentation is key here. If you have any performance reviews, emails, or other records showing you were doing your job adequately, gather them now. When Washington ESD does their investigation, they'll want to see evidence from both sides.

One thing that really helped me was using that Claimyr service when I needed to talk to Washington ESD about my case. I was stuck in adjudication for weeks and couldn't get through on the phone. Claimyr got me connected to an agent who explained exactly what documents they needed from me.

The whole system is so messed up. They make it so hard to file and then take forever to process claims. Meanwhile we're supposed to just survive with no income. At least you're asking the right questions now instead of assuming you can't get benefits.

File ASAP and don't let your employer intimidate you. A lot of companies will tell you that you can't get unemployment if you're fired, but that's not true. They're just trying to discourage you from filing so they don't get a claim against their account.

just wanted to say good luck! I was in a similar situation a few months ago and it all worked out. The waiting is the hardest part but Washington ESD was fair in their decision.

Make sure you're also looking for work and keeping a job search log. Even while your claim is in adjudication, you need to be able to show you're actively seeking employment. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week.

If your employer appeals the decision (which they might), don't panic. You'll get a chance to tell your side of the story. I had to do a phone hearing for mine and it was way less scary than I thought it would be.

Another vote for Claimyr if you run into issues getting through to Washington ESD. I used them when I was having problems with my weekly claim certification and they got me connected within an hour. Way better than spending all day trying to call.

Bottom line: you have nothing to lose by filing. Worst case scenario they deny you and you appeal. Best case scenario you get approved and start getting benefits. Don't let your employer's version of events discourage you from applying.

One more tip - when you file online, make sure you answer all the questions completely and accurately. If you're unsure about something, it's better to explain too much than too little. You can always clarify later but incomplete information can cause delays.

Hope everything works out for you. The unemployment system isn't perfect but it's there for situations exactly like yours. You worked, you paid into it, and now you need it. That's how it's supposed to work.