Washington ESD unemployment benefits if fired from a job - am I eligible?

That's a relief to hear! I was always trying my best at work, just struggled with the pace sometimes. Should I mention that in my application?

Definitely include your side of the story when you file. Be honest but focus on the fact that you were making good faith efforts to do your job properly.

Did you have to do anything special during the investigation process? I'm nervous about what my old boss might say.

Just be truthful if they call you. They asked me specific questions about what happened and I just explained my side honestly. The whole thing was pretty fair actually.

Good point - I'll file tonight. How long did your adjudication take?

Mine took about a month total, but that was during busy season. Could be faster now.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true honestly

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Got connected to an agent in like 20 minutes instead of calling for days.

I used them last month when my claim was stuck in adjudication. Definitely worth it if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD quickly.

That's frustrating but try to stay focused on the OP's question about eligibility after being fired.

You're right, sorry. @OP - definitely apply regardless of being fired. Don't let them intimidate you out of benefits you might deserve.

They'll send you mail if they need anything else. Also check your SecureAccess Washington account regularly for updates on your claim status.

Good job filing! Now just keep doing your weekly claims even while it's in adjudication. You don't want to miss any weeks.

How did the appeal process work? Was it complicated?

not really just had to fill out some forms and explain why i disagreed. they reversed it after reviewing everything

This is really helpful! My situation was definitely performance-related, not misconduct by this definition.

What about if you fail a drug test? Asking for a friend...

That would typically be considered misconduct if it violates company policy, but your friend should still apply and let Washington ESD make the determination.

Hang in there! At least we're not alone in this situation.

If you need to check on your adjudication status, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really helps get through to someone at Washington ESD who can give you an update.

No waiting period for filing, but there might be a one-week waiting period before you start receiving benefits. File as soon as possible after losing your job.

Exactly right. The sooner you file, the sooner your claim can be processed and you can start your weekly certifications.

It might not be too late but you should file immediately. You generally have to file within a year of job separation, but the longer you wait, the more potential benefits you lose.

Filing tonight! Thank you all for the information and encouragement.

They contact employers in all cases to verify employment details and get their side of the separation reason. It's part of the standard process.

Good to know. I was hoping to avoid any drama with my former boss but I guess that's inevitable.

That's totally normal! The investigation letter means they're taking your claim seriously and doing their due diligence.

Keep doing your weekly claims during the investigation. Even if there's a delay, you don't want to miss certifying for any weeks.

That's reassuring to hear from someone on the employer side! I was definitely not fired for anything serious, just couldn't keep up with their productivity standards.

Struggling to meet productivity standards is not misconduct. You should be fine as long as you were making good faith efforts to do your job.

Congratulations! That gives me hope that my case will work out too.

5 weeks seems like forever but glad it worked out. Did they backpay you for all the weeks you were waiting?

Yes they did! Got a nice chunk of backpay once the claim was approved.

Good reminder! I've been applying to jobs but should probably keep better track of my search activities.

Definitely keep a log. Washington ESD requires job search activities and they do sometimes audit people to make sure they're meeting the requirements.

I know the feeling! That's exactly why I was so relieved when I found out about their service. Makes such a difference when you actually need to talk to someone.

gonna bookmark their site for future reference. hopefully won't need it but good to know it exists

How long do you have to file an appeal if the initial decision is negative?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait - appeal deadlines are strict.

That's what this community is for! Don't let fear keep you from applying for benefits you might be entitled to.

Agreed! Everyone here has been so supportive and informative. Really glad I asked this question.

Congratulations! So glad you got approved. Your experience will hopefully encourage others in similar situations to apply.

Awesome news! The system actually worked like it's supposed to in your case.

Welcome to the approved club! Hope your job search goes well and you find something even better than your last position.