Valid reasons to file for unemployment benefits in Washington - need clarification

I do have the original job posting that mentioned flexible scheduling and some text messages about the schedule changes. Should I gather anything else before filing?

Yes, get any emails or written communication about the scheduling issue. Also document your attempts to resolve it with your supervisor. The more paper trail you have, the better your case will be during adjudication.

I asked if we could find a compromise and suggested some alternative schedule options, but my manager said it was their way or nothing. I even offered to work different days but they wouldn't budge.

That sounds like you made reasonable attempts to resolve the issue. Make sure to include all those details in your unemployment application. Washington ESD will want to see that you tried to work it out before quitting.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com. They basically call Washington ESD for you and get you connected to an agent. Saved me so much frustration - I was able to get my questions answered in like 20 minutes instead of weeks of trying. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

That actually sounds amazing. I'm going to check that out right now. I'm desperate to talk to someone about my claim status.

Wait, does this cost money? I'm already struggling financially and can't afford to pay for something that should be free.

It's worth checking out their site for the details. For me, the time and stress it saved was definitely worth it compared to the alternative of never getting through on my own.

That's good to know. Should I be worried about my employer fighting my claim? They might not want their unemployment insurance rates to go up.

Employers do sometimes contest claims, but if you have solid documentation and a legitimate good cause reason, you should be fine. The key is being honest and thorough in your application.

Oh no, that sounds awful. Did you eventually get approved after the appeal?

yeah finally got approved but it was like 4 months of stress and paperwork. make sure you keep EVERYTHING documented from day one

I'm going through an appeal right now and it's been 6 weeks since my hearing. The whole process is so slow and frustrating.

This is really helpful, thank you! It sounds like I might have a decent case if I document everything correctly.

I quit due to harassment from my supervisor and got approved. The key was having specific dates, incidents, and any witnesses or documentation. Washington ESD really wants concrete evidence, not just your word against theirs.

Good point. I'm definitely ready to start job searching immediately if I get approved. How many jobs do you have to apply for each week in Washington?

It depends on your situation but typically 3 job search activities per week. Make sure you're registering with WorkSource WA too, that's usually required.

And keep detailed records of all your job search activities! They can audit you at any time and if you can't prove you were looking for work, they'll make you pay back benefits.

That's why documentation is so crucial. Do you have any record of calling in or notifying them? Text messages, emails, anything that shows you properly resigned?

I called and left a voicemail but didn't think to follow up with an email. I'm kicking myself now for not getting it in writing.

You might want to contact Washington ESD directly about this discrepancy. If your employer is misrepresenting what happened, that could affect your claim. I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier to get through to an agent when I had a similar issue with my employer's story not matching reality.

That's encouraging to hear! How long did the whole process take from filing to getting your first payment?

About 6 weeks total, but that included a brief adjudication period where they investigated my good cause claim. Some people get approved faster if their case is more straightforward.

That would definitely qualify as good cause under Washington law. Failure to provide reasonable accommodations for a documented medical condition is a legitimate reason to quit. Make sure you have all your medical documentation and any communication with your employer about the accommodation request.

ok good i was worried i wouldn't qualify. i have all the doctors paperwork and emails where they denied my request

You might also want to file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission if they violated disability accommodation laws. That's separate from unemployment but could strengthen your case.

You typically have to file within a certain timeframe after becoming unemployed, but it's worth checking with Washington ESD to see if you have any options. Sometimes there are exceptions for people who didn't know they were eligible.

I'll look into it, thanks. I had no idea good cause quits could qualify for benefits.

That's a good point. I've been hesitating because I wasn't sure, but you're right that there's no harm in trying. I'll gather all my documentation and file this week.

Agreed. I waited too long to file when I was laid off and missed out on weeks of potential benefits. The application process itself doesn't cost anything, so there's really no downside to applying if you think you might qualify.

Just make sure you're completely honest in your application. Washington ESD will investigate thoroughly and any false information can disqualify you permanently from benefits. Better to be honest and get denied than lie and get caught later.