Washington ESD denied unemployment now what - need advice on next steps

You absolutely have the right to appeal this decision! You have 30 days from the date on your determination letter to file an appeal with Washington ESD. The appeal process involves a hearing where you can present your evidence and testimony about the hostile work environment. Make sure you have all your documentation ready - emails, witness statements, any HR complaints you filed, etc.

same thing happened to me last year, had to quit because of harassment and they denied me too initially

The appeal process can be challenging, but hostile work environment is definitely considered good cause for quitting in Washington. You'll need to prove that the situation was so severe that a reasonable person would have quit. Document everything chronologically and be prepared to explain why you didn't file complaints with HR first (if you didn't).

Hey, I know how frustrating it is trying to get through to Washington ESD for help with appeals. I was in a similar situation and couldn't reach anyone by phone for weeks. A friend told me about this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually get connected to Washington ESD agents. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me so much time and stress when I needed to discuss my appeal options.

Don't give up! The initial determination is often wrong, especially in hostile work environment cases. Washington ESD adjudicators sometimes don't fully understand the nuances of workplace harassment. The appeal hearing is your chance to tell your full story to someone who will actually listen.

Make sure you file that appeal ASAP - the 30 day deadline is strict. You can do it online through your Washington ESD account or mail it in. Also, keep filing your weekly claims even though you were denied because if you win the appeal, you'll get backpay for those weeks.

ugh this is exactly why I hate dealing with unemployment. they make it so hard for people who actually need help

I went through this exact same situation two years ago. Racist supervisor, hostile environment, quit for my own sanity and got denied initially. The key for my successful appeal was organizing all my evidence chronologically and having a clear timeline of events. Also had my doctor write a letter about how the stress was affecting my health.

Just want to add that if you can't get through to Washington ESD by phone to ask questions about your appeal, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier really does work. I used it last month when I needed to talk to someone about my adjudication issues. Worth checking out their demo video if you're tired of busy signals.

Whatever you do, don't miss that 30-day appeal deadline! I learned that the hard way when I waited too long thinking I could figure it out myself. Once that window closes, you're basically out of luck unless there are extraordinary circumstances.

Also remember that even if your employer contests your appeal (which they probably will), you still have a good chance if your evidence is solid. Employers often don't show up to the hearings or don't present their case well.

Been there with hostile work environment quit. Key things for appeal: 1) Show you tried to resolve it internally first (which you did with HR) 2) Document specific incidents with dates 3) Prove it would be unreasonable to stay 4) Show you looked for solutions before quitting. Sounds like you have most of this covered.

Just curious - did Washington ESD give you a specific reason code on your determination letter? Sometimes understanding exactly why they denied it can help you target your appeal better.

One more thing - if you win your appeal, make sure Washington ESD processes your backpay correctly. Sometimes they mess up the calculation or don't include all the weeks you should get paid for. Double-check their math!

Update us on how your appeal goes! A lot of people are in similar situations and it helps to hear success stories. You've got a strong case from what you've described.