Washington ESD - Can you file for unemployment if you are fired?

Yes, you can definitely file for unemployment even if you were fired! Washington ESD looks at the reason for termination. If you were fired for reasons beyond your control (like performance issues that weren't willful misconduct), you should be eligible. The key is whether it was 'misconduct' or just not being a good fit. File your claim right away - the worst they can do is deny it, but you might be surprised.

I was in a similar situation. Got fired from my retail job for being 'too slow' during busy periods. Filed for unemployment anyway and got approved after about 3 weeks. The adjudication process took a while but they determined it wasn't misconduct since I was trying my best.

Here's what Washington ESD considers when you're fired: they look at whether it was misconduct connected to your work. Simple poor performance usually isn't misconduct unless you were deliberately doing a bad job. Since you mentioned no formal warnings or write-ups, that works in your favor. Make sure to file within the first week after losing your job to avoid any delays.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I needed to check on my claim status after being fired. Spent hours on hold and kept getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to actual ESD agents. They have this demo video (https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ) that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration - got connected to an agent in like 20 minutes instead of spending all day calling.

Whatever you do, don't lie on your application. I know someone who got fired for attendance issues but marked 'laid off' on their UI claim. Washington ESD found out during the investigation and not only denied benefits but said it was fraud. Just be truthful about being terminated.

ugh the washington esd system is so confusing when you get fired. i was terminated from my restaurant job and it took forever to figure out if i could even apply. wish they made it clearer on their website

File immediately! Even if you're not sure you qualify, it's better to file and let Washington ESD make the determination. I waited 2 weeks thinking I wasn't eligible after being fired and missed out on those benefit weeks. You can't backdate your claim in most cases.

The key thing is Washington ESD will investigate. They'll contact your employer and ask for their side of the story. If your employer can't prove it was misconduct (like showing documentation of warnings, policy violations, etc.), you'll likely get approved. Since you mentioned no formal write-ups, that's good for your case.

I'm going through this exact situation right now. Filed 3 weeks ago after being fired for 'not meeting expectations' and still waiting for adjudication. The uncertainty is killing me but at least I filed right away.

From what I understand, Washington ESD has to prove you committed misconduct to deny benefits. The burden is on them, not you. Being a slow worker or not being good at your job isn't the same as misconduct. Definitely file your claim.

Make sure you keep records of everything - your termination letter, any emails, performance reviews if you have them. Washington ESD might ask for documentation during the adjudication process. Also start looking for work right away because you'll need to report your job search activities.

the whole system is rigged against workers anyway. they make it so hard to get benefits even when you legitimately qualify. corporations can fire people for any reason but then try to block unemployment claims

Quick question - do you have to report being fired to future employers? I'm worried this will hurt my job search.

I used Claimyr when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD after my firing. They connected me to an agent who explained exactly what documentation my employer had submitted and what the adjudication process would involve. Really helped ease my anxiety about the whole thing.

File ASAP! I was fired from my office job last year for 'poor attitude' (which was BS) and got approved for full benefits. Washington ESD sided with me because my employer couldn't prove I was actually being insubordinate or violating policies. Just doing my job slowly isn't misconduct.

Remember you can appeal if Washington ESD initially denies your claim. Sometimes they deny first and approve on appeal. Don't give up after the first decision if you think you're in the right.

thanks everyone for all the advice. im going to file my claim today and just be honest about everything. hopefully it works out

One more tip - if you do get approved, make sure you understand the job search requirements. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week and you have to keep detailed records. Missing this requirement can get your benefits stopped.

Last thing - when you file, make sure you have all your employment info ready (dates worked, wages, reason for separation). The application will ask for specific details and it's easier if you have everything organized beforehand.