What reasons for unemployment qualify for Washington ESD benefits?

Thanks! That's reassuring about the layoff. What exactly counts as 'misconduct' that would disqualify you?

Misconduct includes things like repeatedly violating company policy, excessive unexcused absences, theft, or insubordination. It has to be willful behavior that goes against your employer's interests. Being a poor performer or making honest mistakes usually doesn't count as misconduct.

Have you tried Claimyr? It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I found it at claimyr.com when I was struggling to reach someone about my claim. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works.

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

Yes, it connects you with actual ESD agents. Saved me hours of calling and getting busy signals.

What's the difference between regular unemployment and standby status?

Standby means your employer gave you a specific return-to-work date within 12 weeks. You still file weekly claims but you don't have to do the job search activities. Regular unemployment requires active job searching.

How long did the appeal process take? I'm thinking about appealing my disqualification.

About 6 weeks from when I filed the appeal to the hearing. Make sure you document everything and gather any evidence that supports your case.

Really? I didn't know you could get unemployment while still working.

Yeah, if your weekly earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5, you can get partial benefits. It's calculated based on how much your income dropped.

I agree, their website is terrible. Half the links don't work and the information is scattered everywhere.

This is why I ended up using Claimyr when I needed to talk to someone about my specific situation. Sometimes you just need a real person to explain things in plain English.

What kind of documentation do they need for medical reasons?

Usually doctor's notes, medical records, or statements from healthcare providers. They want proof that continuing to work would have been detrimental to your health or your family member's health.

That seems harsh. If you can't get to work, how is that your fault?

The law requires that you exhaust all reasonable alternatives before quitting. So you'd need to show you tried carpooling, public transit, different childcare arrangements, etc.

Is there special documentation needed for that?

You can provide police reports, court orders, medical records, or statements from counselors. They're pretty understanding about these situations and the documentation requirements are flexible.

How do they calculate the base period? I've been working steady for 3 years.

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, they'd look at October 2023 through September 2024.

Do veterans get any special consideration in the unemployment process?

There are some veteran-specific programs and they can use military wages in their claim calculation. WorkSource has dedicated veteran services too.

This is exactly why I used Claimyr to talk to an agent about my specific case. Generic information online only goes so far when you have unique circumstances.

Good point. Having someone who knows the system look at your individual situation can make a big difference.

How long do you have to file an appeal?

You have 30 days from the date on the determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait until the last minute though - get it filed as soon as possible.

Absolutely. They contact your employer anyway, so any lies will be caught quickly.

Thanks everyone. This has been really helpful. I feel much more confident about filing my claim now.