Washington ESD unemployment if I get fired from my job - can I collect benefits?

That's helpful, thank you. It would definitely be performance-related, not misconduct. I'm just not meeting their sales targets.

Performance issues usually qualify unless they can prove you were deliberately not doing your job.

How long does the adjudication process usually take? I'm worried about paying bills if there's a long delay.

It can take 2-6 weeks depending on how complex your case is. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money.

It's worth it when you can't get through any other way. Much better than spending hours on hold or getting hung up on.

Never heard of that but sounds interesting. Washington ESD phone system is definitely frustrating.

Good point. I have all my performance reviews and emails about the sales targets I missed.

That documentation will be really helpful if Washington ESD has questions during adjudication.

I understand the frustration, but they have to prevent fraud somehow. The system works for most people who qualify.

The rules exist for a reason but I agree the process could be clearer for people filing claims.

If you quit voluntarily, it's much harder to get unemployment. Getting fired for performance is usually better than quitting.

Yeah that's exactly why I'm asking. I don't want to quit and lose my chance at benefits.

What's a fact-finding interview? Is that part of adjudication?

Yes, if there are questions about your separation they'll schedule a phone interview with you and potentially your employer to get the facts.

Those interviews are usually pretty straightforward if you're telling the truth about what happened.

How soon should I apply? Same day or can I wait a few days?

I'd do it within a day or two max. The sooner the better to get your claim processing.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying to jobs?

Applying, networking events, career fairs, updating your resume with a professional. Check the Washington ESD website for the full list.

That's reassuring to hear. Did your employer contest your claim?

They responded to Washington ESD's inquiry but didn't fight it since it really was just performance and not misconduct.

Attendance can be tricky. If it's due to illness or other valid reasons, usually not misconduct. If it's just repeatedly not showing up without excuse, that could be misconduct.

Washington ESD looks at the specific circumstances around attendance issues. Each case is different.

Smart advice. I'll definitely keep notes of everything I submit.

Yes, consistency is key. Any major discrepancies will raise red flags during adjudication.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. Did you try calling to check on your claim status?

Tried calling constantly but could never get through. Phone lines are always jammed.

That's where Claimyr really helped me. Could actually talk to someone instead of getting busy signals all day.

Washington ESD calculates it based on your earnings in your base period, which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file.

So if I've been at this job for 2 years, it would be based on that income?

Yes, assuming you haven't had other jobs during that time. They look at all covered employment in your base period.

I haven't thought about that. How can I tell if they're trying to do that?

If they start making your work environment unbearable or give you impossible tasks, they might be trying to force you to quit.

That's called constructive dismissal and you can still potentially get benefits if you can prove it.

Yes, you have 30 days from the date of the determination to file an appeal. You'll get a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Good to know there are options if the initial decision goes wrong.

Thanks, that helps ease my anxiety about it.

Same experience here. Performance firing usually isn't a problem for unemployment.

What kind of restrictions would be a problem?

Like if you can only work certain hours or refuse jobs that pay less than what you made before. You have to be reasonably available for work.

Though you can refuse jobs that pay significantly less than your previous wage, especially early in your unemployment period.

How long from filing to first payment?

About 5 weeks total including the waiting week and adjudication time.

That's encouraging. I feel a lot better about this whole situation now.

Yeah and if you need help during the appeals process, services like Claimyr can help you reach the right people at Washington ESD to get answers.

The appeals process gives you a fair chance to present your case with all the details.