Washington ESD unemployment when you get fired - am I eligible?

That's somewhat reassuring. How do they determine what counts as misconduct? I was never told I was doing anything wrong before they fired me.

Washington ESD looks at whether your actions were intentional violations of company policy or reasonable expectations. Poor performance due to inability rather than unwillingness typically doesn't qualify as misconduct.

Good point, I'll start the application today. Do I need any specific documentation from my employer?

You'll need your employment dates, wage information, and reason for separation. If your employer contests the claim, that's when you'll need to provide more detailed documentation about the circumstances.

How long did the adjudication take? I'm really worried about paying my bills while this gets sorted out.

Mine took about 3 weeks. If you're having trouble reaching anyone at Washington ESD during the process, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Right? It feels like they're trying to avoid paying unemployment by making up performance issues. Did you end up getting approved?

yeah eventually but it was a nightmare trying to get someone on the phone at washington esd to explain what was happening with my claim

That's smart advice. I should probably also get copies of any emails or texts I sent about the safety issues.

Absolutely. Any written communication that shows you were acting in good faith as an employee will help your case if the employer tries to claim misconduct.

You're right, I did pay into unemployment insurance with every paycheck. I shouldn't feel guilty about using it when I need it.

Exactly! That's what unemployment insurance is for - to help people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying online or do I need to do something else?

Applying for jobs, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, networking events, or working with WorkSourceWA all count. Keep detailed records of dates, employers contacted, and method of contact.

What happens if they contest it and I lose? Do I have to pay back any benefits I received?

If you lose the initial determination, you can appeal within 30 days. You only have to pay back benefits if it's determined you received them fraudulently, which doesn't sound like your situation.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. How are you managing financially while waiting?

Barely, to be honest. I'm looking into food banks and other assistance programs while I wait for a decision.

Good to know! I'll try calling first thing Monday morning.

Or use that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier - it automatically calls and waits on hold for you so you don't have to sit there for hours pressing redial.

Thank you, I really needed to hear that. I keep second-guessing myself and wondering if I should have just kept quiet.

Never keep quiet about safety issues! You potentially saved someone from getting hurt. That takes courage and you should be proud of yourself.

Yeah I'll be completely honest about being terminated for alleged performance issues. I have nothing to hide.

That's the right approach. Honesty is crucial because Washington ESD will verify everything with your employer anyway.

6 weeks?! That's insane. Have you been able to talk to anyone about why it's taking so long?

I've tried calling dozens of times but can never get through. The system is completely overwhelmed.

You're right, I should keep trying to reach them even if it's difficult.

I finally got through using Claimyr after weeks of trying on my own. Cost some money but was worth it to actually speak to someone about my claim status.

That's good to know. How does the appeal process work?

You request an appeal hearing within 30 days of the denial. You'll get to present your case to an administrative law judge, usually over the phone.

I know, it really does feel backwards. But I'm not going to let them intimidate me out of applying for benefits I'm entitled to.

Good for you! Standing up for yourself is important.

They didn't give me anything in writing, just told me verbally it was performance issues. Should I ask for something in writing?

You can try, but they're not required to provide it. Just document what they told you verbally as best you can remember.

I will definitely update everyone. Thank you all for the advice and support - it really helps to know I'm not alone in this.

We've all been there in some way. The unemployment system is tough to navigate but you've got this!