If I'm fired can I collect unemployment benefits in Washington?

Thanks, that's reassuring. They said it was performance related, not misconduct. How do I know if Washington ESD will approve my claim?

Washington ESD will contact both you and your former employer to get both sides of the story. They'll make a determination based on the facts. If they deny your claim initially, you have the right to appeal.

How long did it take for them to make a decision on your claim?

About 3 weeks for me. They had to do what's called adjudication where they investigate the circumstances of my termination.

That's pretty typical. Mine took about the same time when I got laid off.

Is that service expensive? I'm already worried about money.

It's worth it when you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. Way cheaper than missing out on benefits because you can't get through on the phone.

I've heard of that service too. Friend used it when her claim got stuck in adjudication hell.

Good point. I'll file today. Do I need any special documents?

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months. Also helpful to have your last pay stub.

What kind of questions did they ask you during the interview?

lots of stuff about why exactly i got fired, what my boss said, if i had any warnings, whether i violated any policies. felt like i was on trial

That's normal. They have to determine if the termination was your fault or not. Just be honest and factual.

What about if you get fired for being late too much? Asking for a friend...

That's more of a gray area. Depends on whether your employer had a clear attendance policy and gave you warnings.

Yeah, I definitely got fired, didn't quit. They basically called me into HR and said today was my last day.

That sucks. At least you can file for benefits though. When I quit my toxic job I was stuck with no income for months.

They didn't give me any severance, just my final paycheck. Does that affect anything?

Nope, that shouldn't affect your claim at all. Your final paycheck is just your regular wages.

I do have some emails about my performance. Should I send those to Washington ESD?

Keep them handy but don't send anything unless they specifically ask. They'll request documents if they need them during the adjudication process.

Good advice. I sent too much stuff upfront and it just confused things.

What counts as a job search contact?

Applying for jobs, networking contacts, attending job fairs, even some online job search activities. They have specific requirements on their website.

This is so true. I spent hours on hold trying to reach someone about my claim status.

Exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. They actually got me through to an agent who could explain what was taking so long with my adjudication.

My manager did say something about how I probably wouldn't qualify. I wondered if he was trying to discourage me.

Sounds like he was. Employers don't make the decision about your benefits - Washington ESD does. File your claim and let them determine your eligibility.

Thanks everyone. I'm going to file my claim today. This has been really helpful.

Good luck! Most people in your situation do end up getting approved. Just be patient with the process.

This is important. I accidentally answered a question wrong once and it flagged my claim for review.

Exactly. And if something like that happens, that's another time when being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD becomes crucial.

How long do you have to file an appeal if you get denied?

I believe it's 30 days from the date of the determination notice. Don't wait if you disagree with their decision.

And remember, during the appeals process you can still file weekly claims. If you win your appeal, you'll get back pay for those weeks.