Washington ESD unemployment benefits if you get fired - eligibility question

That's reassuring to hear. Should I mention the safety complaint in my application or wait to see if they contest it?

I'd include it in your application. If they fired you for complaining about safety issues, that could actually strengthen your case for benefits.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved after filing?

About 3 weeks, but my employer didn't contest it. If yours does, it could take longer and might go to adjudication.

Did you have to provide documentation about the harassment complaint?

Yes, I provided emails and the HR complaint I filed. Any documentation you have about the safety violations would be helpful.

This is exactly why I keep screenshots of everything work-related now. You never know when you'll need proof.

That sounds really helpful. How much does something like that cost?

They don't post pricing on the site but it was worth it for me since I was spending entire days trying to get through on my own.

I've heard about services like this but wasn't sure if they were legit. Good to know it actually worked for someone.

What happens during adjudication? Do they interview both me and my employer?

They'll request information from both parties and may conduct phone interviews. Be honest about what happened and provide any evidence you have.

That's frustrating but at least you eventually got approved. Gives me hope for my situation.

Yeah just be prepared for a fight. Keep all your documentation and don't let them intimidate you.

Two months seems excessive. Did you appeal or just wait it out?

Yes, you still need to file weekly claims and do your job search activities even during adjudication. Don't skip this or it could affect your benefits.

Good point, I need to start documenting my job search right away.

I have emails where I reported the safety issues to my supervisor. Should I print those out?

Absolutely. Print them and keep digital copies too. Any response from management would also be helpful.

This is solid advice. The lack of progressive discipline is a big red flag that suggests wrongful termination.

How did you prove it was retaliation and not legitimate performance issues?

I had good performance reviews up until I made the complaint, then suddenly everything I did was wrong. The timeline made it obvious.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'll file tonight after I gather my documentation.

Smart move. The sooner you file, the sooner your potential benefits start counting.

That's helpful to know. I definitely wasn't doing anything intentionally wrong.

Attendance and performance are treated differently but both are usually not considered misconduct unless there's a pattern of willful behavior.

Good advice. I was worried about sounding defensive but I should just be factual.

Exactly. Let the evidence speak for itself rather than trying to argue your case in the application.

I bookmarked their site just in case. Hopefully I won't need it but good to have as backup.

I tried it too after seeing it recommended here. Worked great for getting through to an actual person.

I didn't know that. So I should keep filing even if I haven't heard back about whether I'm approved?

Yes, absolutely. You file weekly claims for any week you want to potentially receive benefits for, even during the review process.

The safety complaint was about 3 weeks before they fired me. Is that close enough timing-wise?

That's actually pretty good timing to establish a connection. Most retaliation happens within a few weeks to a few months.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I feel much more confident about filing now. Will update this thread once I hear back from Washington ESD.

Good luck! Remember to keep documenting your job search activities while you wait for the decision.