What reasons can you be denied unemployment by Washington ESD?

There are several main categories where Washington ESD can deny your claim. The most common ones are: 1) Voluntary quit without good cause (like quitting because you didn't like your boss), 2) Misconduct (getting fired for breaking rules, attendance issues, etc.), 3) Not meeting work/wage requirements (didn't work enough or earn enough in your base period), 4) Not able and available to work (can't work due to injury, not looking for work), and 5) Refusing suitable work offers. Each category has specific rules.

Don't forget about the work search requirements too. Even if you qualify initially, Washington ESD can cut off your benefits if you're not actively looking for work or not documenting your job search activities properly. You need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep detailed records.

I went through this whole process last year and it was a nightmare trying to get through to Washington ESD to clarify my situation. Spent weeks calling and either getting busy signals or being hung up on after waiting for hours. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me actually reach an agent. They have this demo video (https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ) that shows how it works - basically they handle the calling and connect you when they get through. Made such a difference in getting my questions answered.

Another big reason for denial is if you're receiving other benefits that conflict with unemployment. Like if you're getting workers' compensation, disability benefits, or certain types of pensions, Washington ESD might reduce or deny your UI benefits. They also deny if you're not a U.S. citizen or don't have work authorization.

I got denied initially because I didn't have enough wages in my base period. Turns out I needed to request an alternate base period that included more recent wages. A lot of people don't know about this option and just accept the denial.

The whole system is so confusing! I've been trying to figure out if I'd qualify and every website gives different information. Some say you need to work 680 hours, others mention different wage amounts. Why can't Washington ESD just make this clear?

They can also deny you for fraud or misrepresentation. If you lie on your application or don't report income properly, that's an automatic disqualification plus you might have to pay penalties. Washington ESD cross-checks everything.

Don't forget about the school attendance rules. If you're a student attending school more than half time, you might not qualify for benefits unless you meet specific exceptions. This trips up a lot of people.

I've seen people get denied for not being available for work. Like if you can only work certain days or hours, or if you're not willing to commute a reasonable distance. Washington ESD expects you to be flexible about work opportunities.

Another thing - if you're involved in a labor dispute or strike, you can't get benefits. Washington ESD considers that a voluntary work stoppage even if it's union-related.

I had a friend who got denied because he was receiving Social Security retirement benefits. Washington ESD said he couldn't get both at the same time. The pension offset rules are complicated.

The documentation requirements can trip you up too. If you can't provide proper proof of your work history, wages, or identity, they'll deny your claim. Make sure you have all your paperwork ready before filing.

I was almost denied because I didn't respond to a request for information quickly enough. Washington ESD gives you a deadline to provide additional info, and if you miss it, they'll deny your claim. Check your account and mail regularly!

For anyone struggling to reach Washington ESD about their denial or potential denial, I had success with Claimyr after weeks of failed attempts. They handle the phone calls and get you connected to an actual agent. Really helpful when you need clarification on complex rules.

One more thing - if you're in training or education programs, there are special rules. Some approved training programs allow you to keep getting benefits, but others don't. Washington ESD has to approve the training beforehand.

The key thing to remember is that most denials can be appealed if you disagree with Washington ESD's decision. You have 30 days from the date of the determination to file an appeal. Don't give up if you think the decision was wrong.

Thanks everyone for all this information! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much better prepared now to file my claim and know what to watch out for. Saving this for reference.