If they fire you can you get unemployment benefits in Washington?

Yes, you can typically get unemployment if you're fired, but it depends on the reason. Washington ESD will approve benefits if you were terminated for reasons beyond your control (like layoffs, downsizing, or poor performance) but not if you were fired for misconduct or violating company policy.

I got fired last year for attendance issues and still got approved for UI benefits. Washington ESD looks at whether it was willful misconduct or just circumstances. If you weren't deliberately trying to harm the company, you'll probably qualify.

The key thing is making sure you file your claim right away after termination. You have to file your initial claim within a certain timeframe to avoid losing benefits. Don't wait around hoping things will work out.

When I got terminated, I had such a hard time getting through to Washington ESD to ask about my eligibility. Spent weeks calling and getting hung up on. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made the whole process way less stressful.

Document EVERYTHING if you think you might get fired. Save emails, write down conversations with dates, keep your performance reviews. If your employer contests your claim, you'll need proof that the firing wasn't for misconduct.

Been through this twice unfortunately. First time I got denied because I was fired for violating safety protocols (my fault). Second time I got approved because they laid off my whole department. Washington ESD really does look at the specific circumstances.

Make sure you understand the difference between being fired and being laid off too. Layoffs are almost always approved for benefits, but terminations require more review by Washington ESD.

Whatever you do, don't quit before they fire you thinking it'll be easier! Voluntary quits are much harder to get approved for unemployment than terminations, even contested ones.

The whole system is so confusing honestly. I never know if I'm going to qualify or not when stuff like this happens. Wish Washington ESD made their rules clearer upfront.

I used Claimyr when I got terminated last month and needed to speak with Washington ESD about my case. Super helpful for getting past the busy phone lines. Worth checking out if you end up needing to talk to someone about your eligibility.

Just remember you'll need to do your weekly claims and job search requirements even while your termination case is being reviewed. Don't let those slide or you could lose benefits even if you're eventually approved.

Your employer might contest your claim if they fire you, especially if they're trying to avoid paying higher unemployment taxes. Don't let that discourage you from filing - most contests don't succeed if you weren't actually guilty of misconduct.

Been in a similar situation before where I thought I was going to get fired. Started looking for new jobs immediately just in case. Even if you get unemployment, it's not going to replace your full salary.

If you do get fired and your claim gets contested, you might want to consider getting help with the appeal process. I tried to handle mine on my own and it was overwhelming. Services like Claimyr can connect you with Washington ESD agents who can explain the appeal process better.

Bottom line - yes you can get unemployment if you're fired, as long as it wasn't for serious misconduct. File your claim right away, document everything, and don't be afraid to appeal if you get denied unfairly.