If you get fired can you claim unemployment benefits in Washington?

That's a relief to hear! Should I mention the childcare situation when I file my claim?

Yes, absolutely include that information. Washington ESD considers whether the reasons for attendance issues were beyond your control.

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

Mine took about 3 weeks because it went to adjudication. They had to review everything with my former employer.

I'll file today then. Do I need any specific documents from my employer?

You'll need your employer's information and details about your termination, but you don't need documents from them to file. Washington ESD will contact them directly.

Thanks for the heads up about the phone issues. I'll keep that service in mind if I run into problems.

How much does that service cost? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to reach our own state agency.

I agree it's frustrating, but it was worth it for me to get answers instead of calling hundreds of times. The peace of mind was valuable.

That sounds awful. Did you eventually get your benefits approved?

yeah eventually but i almost lost my apartment waiting for them to make up their minds

What if someone was late because of public transportation issues? Would that count as beyond their control?

That could potentially be considered beyond your control, especially if it was due to transit delays or service disruptions. Each case is evaluated individually.

Good advice. I'll start a folder with all the paperwork.

Screenshots of your online account are helpful too. Sometimes things disappear or change in the system.

Exactly! I tried to explain the situation to my supervisor but they just said 'find better childcare' like it's that easy.

Some employers are just not parent-friendly. Hopefully your next job will be more understanding.

You'll need your social security number, driver's license, employment history for the past 18 months, and information about your most recent employer. That's about it to get started.

Thanks! Do you need pay stubs or anything like that?

Not to file initially, but keep them handy in case Washington ESD requests additional documentation during the review process.

I was planning to do it online. Is there anything tricky about the application process?

Not really, just be honest and thorough in your answers. Don't leave anything blank - if something doesn't apply to you, put 'N/A' or '0'.

Good to know that appeals are an option. Hopefully it won't come to that though.

Hopefully not, but don't be discouraged if you get an initial denial. A lot of people win on appeal.

How does it actually work? Do they just call for you or something?

They handle the calling and waiting on hold, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Way better than sitting on hold for hours yourself.

I got one verbal warning about a month ago, but nothing in writing. Should I mention that in my claim?

Yes, definitely mention it. The lack of progressive discipline could help your case.

I'm going to file as soon as I finish reading through these responses. Thanks everyone!

Good luck! Most people who get fired for non-criminal reasons end up getting approved, especially with legitimate circumstances like yours.

That makes sense. It wasn't like I was late because I was staying out partying or anything like that.

Exactly. The distinction matters a lot in these cases. Your circumstances sound very different from willful misconduct.

Oh wow, I didn't know that. Thanks for the tip!

Yes, this is important. You have to keep certifying every week even during adjudication or you'll lose those weeks.

That's encouraging! Did you have to provide any proof of the family issues?

They didn't ask for documentation in my case, but I would have been able to provide it if needed. Medical records, school communications, etc.

I do have a few emails where I explained why I was late. I'll make sure to mention those.

Perfect. Any documentation that shows you were trying to communicate and resolve the issue helps demonstrate good faith.

How many job contacts do you need to make per week?

I believe it's 3 job search activities per week, but check the current requirements when you file. They can change.

Thank you so much! Everyone's advice here has been really helpful. I feel much more confident about filing now.

You're welcome! Feel free to come back and update us on how it goes. We're all rooting for you.