If you get fired can you apply for unemployment in Washington - what are the rules?

That's a relief to hear. How do I know if what they fired me for counts as misconduct? They said performance but I think it was really retaliation.

Misconduct has to be willful and deliberate violation of company rules. Poor performance usually doesn't count as misconduct unless you were intentionally doing bad work.

I'll do that today. Do I need to wait to hear back from them before I can start filing weekly claims?

No, you can start filing weekly claims right away. Just make sure you're actively looking for work and documenting your job search activities.

Wait really? I thought you had to wait for approval first before doing the weekly claims thing

How long does adjudication usually take? I really need these benefits soon.

It varies but can take several weeks. Keep filing your weekly claims during this time even if payments are on hold.

I had an adjudication last year and it took 6 weeks! Was so stressful waiting for them to decide.

Never heard of that but I'll check it out. The phone system is always busy when I try to call ESD.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true

Yeah it's real, I used it when I had issues with my claim status. Saved me tons of time trying to get through their phone system.

I'm definitely worried they're going to lie about why they fired me. Is there anything I can do to protect myself?

Keep any documentation you have about your employment - emails, performance reviews, anything that shows the real reason for termination.

EXACTLY! Document everything because these companies will throw you under the bus to avoid paying UI taxes!

Depends on the circumstances. Chronic tardiness after warnings could be considered misconduct, but it's not automatic.

oh ok good to know. my friend was worried about that lol

That gives me hope! How long did it take for them to investigate and decide?

About 3 weeks total. They called me and my former employer separately to get both sides of the story.

What if they do contest it? What happens then?

Then it goes to adjudication where ESD will investigate and make a determination. You'll get a chance to provide your side of the story.

And if you disagree with their decision you can appeal it too. Don't give up if the first decision goes against you.

How did you eventually get through to them? The phone lines are always busy.

I ended up using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. It was the only way I could actually talk to a real person at ESD.

Yes, you need to be able and available for work and actively seeking employment. Keep track of your job search activities in case they ask for documentation.

How many jobs do you have to apply for each week?

It varies based on your situation, but generally you need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep a log of your activities.

Good job filing quickly! Remember to keep doing your weekly claims even if payments are delayed due to adjudication.

Fingers crossed they don't contest it! Sometimes employers don't bother if they think they won't win.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. Did you eventually get approved?

Yes, but it took 8 weeks total. I had to appeal the initial decision but won in the end.

That's really helpful advice. I'm going to start writing down everything I remember about the situation while it's still fresh.

Smart! Also gather any emails or texts that might support your case. Evidence helps a lot in these situations.

EXACTLY! It's YOUR money that you earned through working! Don't let them make you feel bad for claiming what's rightfully yours.

Thanks, I needed to hear that. I do feel guilty about applying even though I know I shouldn't.

Good to know there's still hope even if the first decision doesn't go my way.

Yeah the appeal process is worth it if you really believe you were wrongfully terminated. I've seen people win on appeal even after losing the initial determination.

I didn't know that's how it worked. No wonder they contest these things.

That's true, but don't let that discourage you from filing if you deserve benefits. The system exists for a reason.

That's why I ended up using Claimyr - saved so much frustration trying to get through their phone system.

I should have known about that service when I was dealing with my claim. Would have saved me weeks of stress.

Definitely learned that lesson! Filed as soon as I could after reading all this advice.

Perfect! Now just stay on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements while everything gets sorted out.

Thanks! I'm feeling a lot more confident about the process after getting all this input from everyone.