Washington ESD unemployment amount if I get fired - how much will I receive?

So it's based on quarterly earnings, not just my current salary? That's confusing. How do I figure out what my highest quarter was?

Yeah, you can look at your pay stubs or W-2 to estimate. If you made $55k consistently, you're probably looking at around $13-14k per quarter. The formula is roughly 3.85% of your total base period wages.

What counts as misconduct? I haven't done anything terrible, just some performance issues lately.

Performance issues usually aren't misconduct unless it's willful. Things like attendance problems, insubordination, or violating company policies are more likely to cause disqualification.

How long did adjudication take? I'm already stressed about money and don't want to wait months for a decision.

Mine took about 6 weeks total. The worst part was not being able to talk to anyone about what was happening. I eventually found this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual person at Washington ESD. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Same here! I've tried calling at different times and it's always busy or the call drops.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - they handle all the calling for you and actually get you connected to a real person. Worth every penny when you're dealing with this stress.

That's actually more than I expected. Is there a waiting period before benefits start?

Yes, there's a one-week waiting period where you don't get paid. And you have to file weekly claims and meet job search requirements to keep getting benefits.

What kind of job search activities count? Just applying for jobs or other stuff too?

Applications, networking events, job fairs, interviews, even creating profiles on job sites. There's a list on the Washington ESD website of approved activities.

That's not really helpful. The system has rules but most people who qualify do get their benefits eventually.

Easy to say when you're not the one trying to pay rent while waiting for adjudication to finish. The bureaucracy is insane.

Good to know. I'm hoping it doesn't come to that but better to be prepared.

Exactly. And keep detailed records of everything - your termination paperwork, pay stubs, any communications with your employer. You might need it all for the claim.

How did you eventually get through to someone at Washington ESD?

I used Claimyr after trying for weeks on my own. They got me connected to an agent the same day I signed up. Made all the difference in getting my issues resolved quickly.

What happens if they contest it? Does that automatically disqualify me?

No, but it triggers an investigation. Washington ESD will review both sides and make a determination. That's why it's important to provide detailed information when you file.

I'll check that out. Thanks for the tip!

That's good to know. I might be able to pick up some freelance work if this happens.

Just make sure to report ALL earnings, even small amounts. Not reporting can cause overpayment issues later.

Yeah I've heard that. I'll stick it out even if things get uncomfortable.

Which service did you use? I'm dealing with the same issue right now.

Claimyr. They actually get you through to a real person instead of just hanging up on you. Wish I'd found them sooner.

They take taxes out of unemployment benefits? I didn't know that.

It's optional but recommended. Otherwise you'll owe taxes on the benefits when you file your return next year.

Yeah, better to be prepared. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!