Washington ESD unemployment if I get fired - what are my options?

Yes, you can potentially get unemployment if you're fired, but it depends on the reason. Washington ESD will look at whether you were terminated for 'misconduct' or just general performance issues. If it's misconduct (like theft, violence, repeatedly violating company policy after warnings), you'll likely be disqualified. But if it's performance-related or layoffs, you should be eligible.

I got fired last year and had no problems getting approved for UI benefits. The key is being honest when you file your claim about the reason for separation. Washington ESD will contact your employer to verify, so don't try to hide anything.

If you do get terminated, file your claim immediately. Don't wait thinking about it. Even if there's an issue with your separation reason, you want to get the process started. I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I needed to check on my claim status - ended up using claimyr.com to help me get connected to an actual agent. Their system automatically calls and gets you through the phone queue, saved me hours of trying to call myself.

ugh the whole system is so stressful. i got fired 6 months ago and it was a nightmare dealing with everything. make sure you start looking for work right away because they have job search requirements you have to meet every week

The most important thing is the reason for termination. 'Misconduct' has a specific legal definition in Washington state unemployment law. Simple poor performance, inability to do the job, or personality conflicts usually don't qualify as misconduct. However, willful violations of company policy after proper warnings can be considered misconduct.

I'm dealing with something similar right now. Been trying to get answers from Washington ESD about my claim for weeks. The phone system is impossible - either busy signal or you wait for hours then get disconnected. So frustrating when you need answers about your benefits.

Keep all your documentation! Write-ups, emails, anything related to your performance issues. If Washington ESD needs to do an investigation, having that paperwork will help your case.

Quick question - do you get benefits immediately when you file or is there a waiting period?

The unemployment office will investigate any firing to determine if it was for misconduct. They'll interview both you and your employer. Be completely honest about what happened - they can usually tell if someone is lying and it'll hurt your case.

I got fired for attendance issues and still got approved for unemployment. The key was showing that I had legitimate reasons for the absences and that the company didn't follow their own progressive discipline policy properly.

Don't quit! If you think you're going to be fired anyway, make them fire you. If you quit, it's much harder to get unemployment benefits. Even if the workplace is terrible, getting fired gives you better chances for UI.

Washington ESD takes forever to process claims nowadays. I filed 2 months ago and still haven't heard back about my eligibility determination. The whole system is backed up.

Also remember that if you do get denied initially, you can appeal the decision. A lot of people don't know that or don't follow through with the appeal process.

Make sure your resume is updated and start networking now, even before anything happens. The job market is competitive and you want to be ready to hit the ground running if you do lose your job.

THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN! I've been waiting 6 weeks for my determination and can't get anyone on the phone to help. How are people supposed to survive like this???

If you get fired, file online immediately at esd.wa.gov. Don't delay thinking about whether you qualify - let Washington ESD make that determination. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start the process.