Washington ESD unemployment if you get fired from a job - can you collect benefits?

That's helpful to know! The car trouble was real - I had to get it towed twice that month. Should I mention that when I file my claim?

Definitely mention any legitimate reasons for the attendance issues. Document everything you can - repair receipts, towing records, etc. Washington ESD will investigate both sides of the story.

6 weeks? That's a long time to wait. Did you have to do anything special during the investigation?

just had to wait for them to contact my old employer and stuff. got a letter asking for my side of the story

Good point about filing right away. I was worried about wasting their time if I wasn't eligible.

Never worry about 'wasting their time' - that's literally what they're there for. The sooner you file, the sooner your claim can be processed.

Interesting, I've never heard of that. Does it actually work for getting through to Washington ESD?

Yeah it worked for me. Saved me from sitting on hold for 2+ hours. The agent was able to explain exactly what documentation I needed for my termination case.

How much does something like that cost? Seems like it might be expensive.

It's worth it when you consider the time saved and getting actual answers. Much better than the automated system runaround.

That's not really accurate. Washington ESD has clear guidelines about what constitutes misconduct. Many people who are fired do receive benefits.

Maybe in theory, but in practice they side with employers most of the time. I've seen it happen to too many people.

This is really helpful. I was never written up for anything else and my work performance was good. It was just the car situation that month.

Yeah that doesn't sound like misconduct to me. I think you have a good chance of getting approved.

Wait, I have to file weekly claims even before they approve my initial claim?

Yes, you need to file weekly claims starting from your first week of unemployment. If you're eventually approved, those weeks will be processed for payment.

Did you have to provide a lot of documentation for your case?

Yeah, had to send in the doctor's note, work schedule, and a written statement explaining my side. Took about 5 weeks total.

You should start looking for work immediately regardless of your unemployment status. In fact, you're required to be actively seeking work to receive benefits once approved.

Good to know! I wasn't sure about the timeline for that.

That's a great tip. I'll definitely ask about timing when I call.

How long do you have to file an appeal if you get denied?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait - file it as soon as possible.

This was my first job where I had attendance issues, so hopefully that helps my case.

Should I contact my old HR department to get the right contact info, or just use what I have?

Use what you have from your employment records. Washington ESD has ways to verify and find the right contacts if needed.

Yeah, I'm already looking into food banks and other assistance programs just in case. The uncertainty is really stressful.

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I'm going to file my claim today and gather all my documentation about the car problems.

Will do! This thread has been super helpful. I feel a lot more confident about the process now.

Yes, you can work part-time, but you need to report all earnings on your weekly claims. It might affect your benefit amount but won't disqualify you entirely.

Thanks! That's good to know for planning purposes.

I understand that perspective, but it was genuinely car trouble, not just excuses. I have the repair receipts to prove it.

Having documentation makes a big difference. Legitimate car trouble with proof is very different from just claiming car trouble.

That seems to be a popular recommendation. I might give it a try if I have trouble getting through to Washington ESD.

How long is the typical waiting period for termination cases?

It varies, but usually 3-6 weeks for the investigation plus any standard waiting week. Could be longer if they need more information.