Washington ESD unemployment benefits if you're fired - what are my options?

That's reassuring. They said it was performance but I was never coached or given improvement plans. Should I file right away?

Yes file immediately. You can always appeal if denied, but you want to get the process started since there's a waiting period.

What if they claim you violated policy but you disagree? I got fired for supposedly not following safety procedures.

That's where the adjudication process comes in. Washington ESD will investigate and may contact both you and your employer for statements.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash being unemployed.

It was worth it for me because I was able to get answers about my adjudication that had been pending for weeks. Much less stressful than calling over and over.

Never heard of this but might be useful. The Washington ESD phone system is absolutely terrible.

What kind of documentation should I gather? I don't have any formal disciplinary records since there weren't any.

Any emails about your performance, your employment contract, attendance records if you have them. Also write down your version of events while it's fresh.

That's not entirely accurate. It really depends on the specific circumstances and how Washington ESD evaluates the case.

yeah well thats been my experience anyway

You can try calling to check on your adjudication status. Sometimes there are additional documents they need that you're not aware of.

I've tried calling hundreds of times. Either busy signal or I wait on hold for hours then get disconnected.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. Got through to someone in about 10 minutes and found out they needed additional verification documents I hadn't submitted.

Do I need to start looking for work right away or can I wait until my claim is approved?

You need to start your job search immediately and keep a log. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week.

That's not the claimant's problem though. If you qualify for benefits you shouldn't feel guilty about filing.

Absolutely agree, just explaining why some employers contest valid claims.

That gives me hope. My situation seems similar - more about circumstances than intentional wrongdoing.

Exactly. Washington ESD looks at whether you had control over the situation and whether it was deliberate.

Good point. I'll make sure to be upfront about everything, even if it doesn't make me look great.

Right approach. It's better to be honest and possibly get benefits than to lie and definitely get denied.

That's unusual. Most determinations come within 2-3 weeks. He should definitely follow up on that.

He's tried calling but you know how impossible it is to get through to anyone at Washington ESD.

Yes I mentioned it earlier. It worked well for me - got connected to an agent quickly and resolved my issue. Worth checking out their demo video.

I was skeptical at first but tried it last month when my weekly claims were showing errors. Got through same day and the agent fixed everything.

Good to know. So I should file my initial claim and then start doing weekly claims right away?

Exactly. Keep filing weekly even if you haven't been approved yet. If you get approved, you'll get backpay for those weeks.

I was definitely fired, not laid off. Should I select 'discharged' on the application?

Yes, and then provide details about the circumstances in the comments section.

The appeal process gives you a chance to present your case more thoroughly, including witness testimony if relevant.

Exactly. I've seen people win on appeal even after being initially denied for misconduct.

They typically maintain records for several years, but they get most termination information directly from employers anyway.

That makes sense. I guess they would contact my current employer about the recent termination.

You're right. I've been overthinking this. Going to file my claim today and deal with whatever comes next.

Good decision. Time is important with unemployment claims, so don't delay any longer.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs or other things too?

Applications, networking events, career fairs, even updating your LinkedIn profile. Check the Washington ESD website for the full list.

Absolutely. It's insurance that you and your employer paid for. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about using it.

Exactly my point. The stigma around unemployment benefits is ridiculous when it's literally insurance you paid for.

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

Please do update us. Your situation will probably help others in similar circumstances.