If you get fired from your job can you collect unemployment in Washington state?

Yes, you can definitely apply for unemployment benefits even if you were fired. The key is whether you were terminated for 'misconduct' or not. Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless they involve willful violations of company policy. You should file your claim right away since there's a waiting period.

I got fired from my job last year for attendance issues and still got approved for UI benefits. The Washington ESD looks at whether it was 'willful misconduct' - being bad at your job isn't the same as intentionally breaking rules. File your claim online as soon as possible.

The Washington ESD uses a specific definition of misconduct that's pretty narrow. Unless you were fired for things like theft, violence, or repeatedly violating clear company policies after warnings, you'll likely qualify. Performance issues rarely rise to the level of disqualifying misconduct.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to check on your claim status, I recently discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com). They helped me actually reach a real person at the unemployment office when I couldn't get through on my own. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Really saved me from weeks of calling and getting busy signals.

DEFINITELY file your claim! I've been fired twice and got unemployment both times. The Washington ESD is pretty fair about this stuff - they know the difference between being a bad employee and being fired for misconduct. Don't let your anxiety stop you from applying.

my roommate got fired for being late all the time and they still gave him unemployment so ur probably fine lol

Just to clarify the process - when you file online at secure.esd.wa.gov, you'll need to provide details about your termination. Be factual and don't embellish. If your employer contests your claim, there will be a phone interview where you can explain your side of the story.

The unemployment system is SO broken. I was laid off and it still took them 6 weeks to process my claim. Good luck getting anyone at Washington ESD on the phone - they're completely overwhelmed.

One important thing to remember - even if you're initially denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Many people win on appeal, especially in cases where the employer's misconduct allegations don't hold up under scrutiny.

I work in HR and I can tell you that most employers don't bother contesting unemployment claims unless it's a really clear case of misconduct. The paperwork and time involved usually isn't worth it to them.

Quick tip - when you file your weekly claims, make sure you're actively looking for work and documenting your job search activities. Washington ESD requires proof that you're seeking employment.

honestly the worst part about getting fired is the emotional toll, not the money part. unemployment benefits help but finding a new job is what really matters

Make sure you file your claim within the first week after losing your job. There's a one-week waiting period before benefits start, but you don't want to delay and lose additional time.

I've been through this exact situation. Got fired for 'performance issues' that were really just personality conflicts with my supervisor. Washington ESD approved my claim within 2 weeks. The key is being honest about what happened without admitting to any policy violations.

Washington ESD is actually pretty good about processing claims quickly if there's no contest from the employer. The problems usually come when you can't reach anyone to resolve issues. That's when services like Claimyr become really valuable.

Don't forget that you might also qualify for other benefits while you're looking for work - food assistance, healthcare subsidies, etc. The unemployment office can connect you with other resources too.

The most important thing is to apply immediately and be completely honest about the circumstances. Washington ESD investigators are pretty good at seeing through employer BS when they try to claim misconduct where none exists.

Good luck with your claim! Remember that unemployment benefits are insurance that you paid into while working - you're not asking for charity, you're claiming benefits you've earned.

Just wanted to add that if you do end up needing to speak with someone at Washington ESD and can't get through, I had success with Claimyr too. Really helped me get answers when I was stuck in adjudication hell.

Update us on how your claim goes! Always good to hear success stories to help other people in similar situations.