What disqualifies you from unemployment in Washington - need to understand the rules

What counts as 'good cause' for quitting? I've been thinking about leaving my job because of a hostile work environment.

Good cause includes things like unsafe working conditions, harassment, discrimination, or significant changes to your job that weren't in your original agreement. Document everything if you're dealing with hostile work environment.

What counts as 'misconduct' though? Is being late a few times enough to disqualify you?

Misconduct has to be willful or wanton disregard of employer interests. Being late occasionally usually isn't enough unless it's a pattern and you were warned repeatedly.

Thanks! What exactly counts as 'misconduct' though? Is being late a few times enough to disqualify you?

Misconduct has to be willful or wanton disregard of employer interests. Being late occasionally usually isn't enough unless it's a pattern after warnings. Washington ESD looks at whether you knew the rule and deliberately violated it.

What counts as 'misconduct' exactly? I was written up a few times for being late but nothing major.

Misconduct has to be willful and substantial. A few tardiness warnings probably wouldn't qualify as misconduct unless it was chronic and you ignored final warnings.

Thanks for the breakdown! What exactly counts as 'misconduct' for getting fired? Is it just serious stuff or can smaller things disqualify you too?

Misconduct has to be willful and substantial. Minor mistakes or personality conflicts usually don't count, but repeated policy violations, insubordination, or dishonesty can disqualify you.

How many job contacts do you need per week? I thought it was 3 but someone told me it's 5 now.

It's typically 3 job search activities per week, but it can vary based on your situation. Check your WorkSource requirements - they'll tell you exactly what you need to do.

What counts as misconduct exactly? My cousin said they fired him for being late too many times but he had car trouble.

Misconduct generally means willful or wanton disregard of employer interests. Chronic tardiness can qualify, but if there were legitimate reasons like transportation issues, that might be appealable.

How many job searches do you need to do per week in Washington?

It depends on your situation but generally 3 job search activities per week. Check your WorkSource account for your specific requirements.

How much is too much? I might pick up some part-time work while I'm looking.

i think its like $350 or something but check the washington esd website they have calculators for partial benefits

How much can you earn before losing benefits? I might pick up some gig work while unemployed.

In Washington, you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount plus $5 before losing benefits. Anything over that reduces your payment dollar for dollar. Just make sure to report ALL earnings honestly.

Wait, is it really 3 per week? I thought it was just 2... now I'm panicking that I haven't been doing enough!

It's 3 for most people, but can vary based on your situation. Check your eligibility requirements in your Washington ESD account to be sure.

If you're behind on job search contacts, you can usually catch up by doing more the following weeks. Just document everything properly going forward.

I quit because my boss was making my life miserable but I didn't document anything. Would that still count as good cause?

It's harder without documentation but not impossible. You'd need to provide details about what happened and any witnesses during the adjudication process.

What about things like selling stuff online or doing odd jobs for cash? Do those count as income that needs to be reported?

Yes, any income should be reported including cash work, freelancing, or selling things. Washington ESD wants to know about all earnings during your claim week.

Oh wow, that's scary. Did you eventually get your benefits back?

Yeah but it took 3 months and I had to prove it was an honest mistake. Now I'm super careful about reporting everything.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true with how hard it is to reach Washington ESD.

Yeah I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Got connected to an adjudicator in like 20 minutes to discuss my disqualification issue.

Never heard of that service before. Does it actually work for getting through to Washington ESD?

Yeah it worked for me. Saved me hours of trying to call on my own. The agent was able to explain exactly what would disqualify me and what wouldn't.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying to jobs or other stuff too?

Applying to jobs, networking contacts, attending job fairs, career workshops, even updating your resume can count. But you need to document everything with dates, employer names, and what you did.

I had trouble reaching Washington ESD when they questioned my job search. Kept getting disconnected after hours on hold. Finally used Claimyr.com to get through to an actual agent who reviewed my documentation and cleared up the issue. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

When do they require you to go to WorkSource? Is it automatic or do they tell you?

Washington ESD will send you a notice if you're selected for reemployment services. It's usually after you've been on benefits for several weeks. You'll get specific instructions about what to do and when to report.

Is that legit? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for weeks about a potential disqualification issue and can never get through.

Yeah it's real, they basically automate the calling process so you don't have to sit there hitting redial. Saved me hours of frustration when I needed to discuss my eligibility.

Is that legit? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for weeks about my disqualification.

Yeah it's real. They basically handle the calling process for you so you don't have to sit on hold. Saved me hours of frustration.

Where do you file the appeal? Is it online or do you have to mail something?

You can file appeals online through your Washington ESD account or mail/fax the appeal form. Online is faster.

Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even while appealing! If you win, you'll get backpay for those weeks.

How much does that cost? I'm trying to save money while I'm unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site for pricing. For me it was worth it because I was stuck in limbo for weeks not knowing why my claim was denied.

What if you're going to school? Does that disqualify you?

Generally yes, unless you're in an approved training program or can prove you're still available for work around your class schedule.

How many job searches do you need to do each week in Washington?

It's typically 3 job search activities per week, but check your specific requirements when you file your weekly claim.

What if you quit because of a hostile work environment? Does that count as good cause?

Potentially yes, but you need documentation and proof that you tried to resolve it with the employer first. Washington ESD takes these cases seriously but you need evidence.

this is why i always document everything at work, you never know when you might need unemployment

How do they define reasonable commuting distance? I live in a rural area and most jobs are pretty far away.

Generally 2 hours roundtrip commute is considered reasonable, but they take into account your specific circumstances and local job market.

What if the job pays way less than what you used to make? Can you refuse it?

Early in your claim, you can refuse jobs that pay significantly less. But as time goes on, the standards get lower and you may have to accept lower-paying work.

What's the income limit? I'm working about 20 hours a week right now.

It depends on your weekly benefit amount. Generally if you earn more than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you won't get any unemployment that week. But you might still qualify for partial benefits.

What if you're just taking one evening class? Does that count as being unavailable for work?

It depends on whether the class schedule interferes with your ability to accept full-time work. Evening classes are usually okay but you need to be available during normal business hours.

How many jobs do you have to apply to each week?

It's not a specific number of applications - it's about making a reasonable effort based on your profession and local job market. But you need to document everything in WorkSourceWA.

What about going on vacation? Do you have to report that to Washington ESD?

Yes, you need to report any time you're not available for work, including vacations. You might not be eligible for benefits for those weeks.

Even for like a weekend trip? That seems harsh.

Short trips might be okay if you're still available for work, but longer trips definitely need to be reported. The key is whether you're available to accept a job offer during that time.

So if my weekly benefit is $300, I can earn $300 without losing any benefits?

Exactly. But if you earn $400, your benefit would be reduced to $200 that week.

This is where having all your documentation ready when you file is really important. Missing or expired work authorization documents can delay or deny your claim.

That's actually a common issue. The WorkSource registration requirement should be communicated clearly when you file your initial claim.

You should appeal that if it wasn't properly communicated. Lack of notice can be grounds for overturning a disqualification.

How did you finally get through to them? I've heard their phone lines are impossible.

I ended up using Claimyr to get connected to an actual Washington ESD agent. Worth every penny to not spend hours on hold getting nowhere. The service handled the calling and got me through to someone who could actually help with my case.

What makes a job 'suitable'? Can they force you to take minimum wage work?

Generally, suitable work should pay at least 80% of your previous wage for the first 13 weeks of unemployment, then requirements become less strict.

What's the base period? Is that just the last year of work?

The base period is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, it would be January 2024 through September 2024.

What if you were just bad at your job? Does poor performance count as misconduct?

Poor performance usually doesn't count as misconduct unless you were deliberately performing poorly. Lack of skill or ability isn't the same as willful misconduct.

Did you file an appeal? You have 30 days from the disqualification notice to appeal the decision.

Yeah I'm waiting for my hearing date. It's been 6 weeks already.

That seems unfair if you genuinely can't work other hours due to childcare.

The able and available requirement means you need to be ready to accept suitable full-time work. Childcare issues can sometimes qualify for exceptions but it depends on your specific situation.

What about being available for work? I can only work certain hours because of childcare.

Limited availability can affect your eligibility. You need to be available for a reasonable amount of work in your field. Document your availability and the reasons for any restrictions.

I have an old DUI from 5 years ago. Will that disqualify me?

Probably not unless it directly affects your ability to work or was related to your job termination.

What makes a job suitable? Can they force you to take minimum wage if you used to make $25/hour?

Generally in the first few weeks you can be selective, but after several weeks of unemployment the definition of suitable work expands. They look at your wage history, skills, and local job market.

Same boat here. Filed my appeal in December and still nothing.

This is exactly why I used Claimyr - was able to call and get an update on my adjudication status instead of just waiting in the dark.

I'm in evening classes, does that count as full-time? I'm still available to work during the day.

Evening classes usually don't disqualify you as long as they don't interfere with your availability for work. It's more about credit hours and time commitment.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. Instead of spending hours trying to get through, they handle the calling and get you connected to an actual person who can help with your disqualification.

I might try that. This is ridiculous that it's so hard to reach them when people need help.

That seems really harsh. What if you quit because of harassment or unsafe conditions?

Those situations might qualify as 'good cause' which wouldn't trigger the waiting period. But you'd need to document everything and possibly go through an appeal.

That's why it's so important to be completely honest on your application and weekly claims. Even innocent mistakes can look like fraud if not handled properly.

Exactly. And once they flag you for fraud, it's really hard to prove it was just a mistake.

How long does that disqualification last? Is it permanent?

It varies depending on the severity of the crime and circumstances. Some are permanent, others have waiting periods. Washington ESD reviews each case individually.

If you're unable to work due to medical issues, you typically wouldn't qualify for regular unemployment since you have to be 'able and available' for work. You might qualify for other benefits though.

That makes sense. I was wondering because my back injury might prevent me from doing my usual job.

What if you can work but just can't do your old job due to an injury? Like if you hurt your back and can't do construction anymore?

If you can do other types of work and are actively seeking those jobs, you might still qualify. The key is being able and available for suitable work in the labor market.

Good point. I hadn't thought about that requirement.

That's reassuring. I was worried that any mistake would permanently disqualify you.

Nope! The system is designed to help people get back to work, not punish them forever. Just make sure you understand the rules and follow the proper procedures.

How do they define 'suitable'? Can I refuse a job that pays way less than my previous job?

Generally you can refuse work that pays significantly less than your previous job, especially early in your claim. The definition of suitable work becomes broader the longer you're unemployed.

What documentation do they need to verify work authorization?

They'll typically ask for your Social Security number and may require additional documentation if there are questions about your work authorization status.

Appeals are definitely an option if you disagree with a disqualification. You usually have 30 days from the notice to file an appeal.

Yeah, the appeal process was long but I eventually got it sorted out. Make sure to gather all your documentation before the hearing.

Even if you paid into the pension yourself? That doesn't seem fair.

The rules distinguish between pensions funded entirely by the employer versus those where you contributed. It's complicated and depends on the specific pension plan details.

What if your workplace closes because of someone else's strike? Like if truckers strike and your factory shuts down?

That's usually considered an exception since you're not directly involved in the labor dispute. Washington ESD looks at whether you have a direct interest in the dispute.

Do you know if retirement benefits count? My dad is thinking about filing for unemployment.

Social Security retirement benefits can reduce unemployment benefits in some cases. He should check with Washington ESD about his specific situation.

How long did it take them to get you connected to someone?

They called me back within a few hours with an Washington ESD agent on the line. Way better than spending my whole day redialing.

How strict are they about reporting income? What if you forget to report something small?

They're pretty strict. Even if it's an honest mistake, failure to report can cause problems. Always err on the side of reporting too much rather than too little.

What's a base period? I've only been working for about 8 months.

It's the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. So if you just started working recently you might not qualify yet.

What about online classes? I was thinking of taking some courses while job hunting.

Online classes are generally okay as long as they don't interfere with your ability to work. But if you're in a full-time program, that could be an issue.

That makes sense for the work authorization part.

Do they randomly drug test unemployment recipients or only if there's a specific reason?

It's usually only if drug use was the reason for job loss or if you're applying for certain types of jobs through WorkSource.

Did you get permanently disqualified for that?

No but I had to pay a penalty and they made me ineligible for several weeks. Really stressed me out.

always report any income even if its just 20 bucks better safe than sorry

Does this apply to marijuana in Washington since it's legal here?

Even though marijuana is legal in Washington, employers can still have drug-free workplace policies. If you're fired for violating company drug policy, you can still be disqualified from unemployment.

That seems like a catch-22 situation for older workers.

It really is. You have to balance being realistic about your prospects while still showing you're actively seeking work in good faith.

Medical limitations can affect your able and available status. You might need to provide documentation about what work you can still perform. Sometimes you can get exceptions if you're looking for work within your restrictions.

Thanks, I'll make sure to document everything with my doctor.

Is the appeal process complicated? Do you need a lawyer?

You don't need a lawyer but you do need to prepare your case well. Gather all documentation, witness statements, and be ready to explain your side clearly. The hearing is usually by phone.

Getting through to Washington ESD to ask questions about the appeal process was another nightmare for me. Claimyr really saved me time and frustration there too. Being able to speak with an actual agent who understood the appeals process made a huge difference.

What kind of records should I keep?

Job applications, interview records, correspondence with employers, pay stubs, anything that shows your work history and job search efforts.

Thanks for all this information everyone. I feel much more prepared now to avoid common mistakes.

Good luck with your claim! Just remember to be honest, follow all the requirements, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

What kind of documentation would prove age discrimination?

Emails, witness statements, documentation of disparate treatment, records of complaints to HR. The more concrete evidence you have, the better your case for good cause.

Do you need to prove the domestic violence situation? That seems like it could be really difficult.

Washington has provisions for this - police reports, court records, statements from counselors or shelters can all be used. The law recognizes that victims shouldn't be penalized for leaving unsafe situations.

What about prescription medications? Can you be fired for those?

Legally prescribed medications are different, but you need to have proper prescriptions and documentation. Employers can't discriminate based on disability or medical treatment.

What if you get deployed? Can you still collect unemployment when you get back?

Deployment usually means you're employed by the military, so you wouldn't be unemployed. But when you return to civilian status, you might be eligible if you meet other requirements.

That's good to know. I was worried about filing because I wasn't sure if my situation would qualify.

Exactly. The worst they can do is say no, but you might be surprised. And if you are disqualified, you still have the right to appeal and present your case.

How do you find out which type of disqualification you have?

It should be explained in your determination letter from Washington ESD. If it's not clear, that's definitely something to call and ask about - or appeal if you disagree.

And again, if you can't get through to Washington ESD by phone, services like Claimyr can be a lifesaver. Sometimes you need to talk to a real person to understand your specific situation, and waiting on hold for hours isn't always practical.

What documentation do they need to verify work authorization? Is a social security number enough?

They usually verify through your previous employer records and tax history. If there are questions, they might request additional documentation.

What happens if you forget to file one week? Can you still file it late?

You can sometimes file late claims but there are time limits and you need a good reason. It's better to file on time even if you're not sure about something.

Totally agree! I spent hours trying to figure out if my situation would disqualify me and the website wasn't helpful at all.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr when I had questions. Being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD made all the difference in understanding my situation.

Does this apply to all criminal records or just recent ones?

It's usually about whether the criminal record directly relates to your job loss or prevents you from working in your field. Each case is reviewed individually.

What about just doing freelance work occasionally? Does that count as self-employment?

Yes, freelance work counts as self-employment income and needs to be reported. The key is whether you're available for full-time employment.

This is all so complicated! I wish there was a simple checklist of what not to do.

What if you're just getting medical treatment but not receiving wage replacement? Does that still affect unemployment?

Medical treatment alone usually doesn't affect unemployment, but if you're receiving wage replacement benefits from worker's comp, that can impact your UI eligibility.

I'm getting a small pension from a previous job, will that disqualify me completely?

Not necessarily disqualify, but it might reduce your weekly benefit amount. It depends on the type of pension and how it's calculated.

Exactly why services like Claimyr are so valuable. Getting actual human help from Washington ESD agents can prevent costly mistakes and misunderstandings.

Thanks everyone for all the detailed info! I feel like I have a much better understanding of what to watch out for now.

Just remember to document everything and be honest in all your reporting. Most disqualifications come from misunderstandings or lack of information rather than intentional fraud.

I didn't know military service could affect unemployment eligibility. What should people in the military know?

It's mostly about availability for work and reporting any military pay. If you're called up for active duty, you need to report that to Washington ESD.

What about if your workplace is shut down due to someone else's strike? Can you get benefits then?

That's different - if you're laid off due to someone else's labor dispute, you might be eligible. It depends on the specific circumstances.

How do you get approval for training programs? Is it hard to qualify?

You need to apply through Washington ESD and show that the training will help you get back to work. Not all programs qualify, so check before you enroll.

This is another area where talking to a Washington ESD agent can be really helpful. The training approval process has specific requirements that aren't always clear online.

My company gave me 2 weeks severance. Does that mean I have to wait 2 weeks to file?

You should file right away but report the severance. They'll tell you when your benefits can start.

Good point. I'm a citizen so that's not an issue for me.

What if you're partially recovered and can do light duty work?

That's a complex situation. You'd need to show you're able and available for work within your restrictions.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. They help you get through to actual agents instead of sitting on hold forever.

I might have to try that. This is ridiculous.

I'm a veteran but not receiving retirement pay. Does that affect anything?

Generally no, but there are special programs for veterans that might be more beneficial than regular unemployment.

Not necessarily, but you need to report the move and might need to register for work in your new state.

That's good to know. I might need to relocate for family reasons.

You need to report any self-employment income. It might reduce your weekly benefit amount depending on how much you earn.

Even if it's just like $50 a week?

Yes, you have to report all income. There's usually a small amount you can earn before it affects your benefits though.

I'm not in a union but good to know for others reading this.

I'm 58 and got 'restructured' after 20 years. Companies don't want to hire older workers.

That's frustrating but keep documenting your job search efforts. The work search requirement is the same regardless of age.

I'm pregnant and my doctor says I can still work. Should I be worried about my claim?

As long as you're able and available for work, pregnancy alone won't disqualify you.

Seriously, try Claimyr. I know I keep mentioning it but it actually works for getting through to someone who can give you real answers.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. Thanks for the recommendation.

Good luck with your claim! Just be honest about everything and keep good records.

Will do. I feel much more prepared now.

What if you had a family emergency and couldn't call in?

That might qualify as good cause if you can document the emergency, but you'd probably have to appeal the initial disqualification.

So true! Got a generic letter saying I was disqualified for 'eligibility issues' with no details.

This is why having a way to actually talk to someone is so valuable. Claimyr helped me get a real explanation of my disqualification instead of just form letters.

Even for a family funeral or something like that?

You can report it and they might approve it, but you have to let them know in advance. Can't just disappear and expect benefits to continue.

Makes sense, they don't want to subsidize strikes.

This has been really helpful everyone. Sounds like the key is being honest and following all the rules exactly.

Exactly. When in doubt, report it and ask questions. It's better to over-communicate with Washington ESD than to get caught not reporting something.

Good point, I wouldn't have thought of that one.

Thanks everyone, this thread has been super informative. I feel like I understand the system much better now.

That's really important to know. I would have assumed you stop filing if you're disqualified.

Nope, keep filing! It maintains your claim and ensures you don't miss out on benefits if your appeal is successful.

What's the minimum you need to have earned?