When can you file for unemployment after being fired - Washington ESD timing rules?

Thanks! Should I file online or call? I've never done this before and don't want to mess it up.

Definitely file online at esd.wa.gov - it's much faster than trying to call. The phone lines are always jammed.

That gives me hope! How long did it take for them to decide on your claim?

took about 3 weeks for the decision, they had to do some kind of investigation thing

What's this waiting week about? I thought unemployment started right away if you qualify.

Washington has a one-week waiting period before benefits start. So even if approved immediately, your first week is unpaid. It's just how the system works.

wait I thought they got rid of the waiting week during covid? or did that end?

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true honestly.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Way better than sitting on hold for 3+ hours just to get hung up on.

How much does something like that cost though?

Yeah definitely filing today then. Thanks for the warning!

This is solid advice. The system doesn't care about your final paycheck timing for filing purposes.

I do have some doctor notes for a few of the sick days. Should I upload those when I file?

Definitely keep those handy. You might not need them initially but if your employer contests the claim, they'll be crucial evidence.

This is why I always get documentation for everything. Employers love to twist the story when unemployment gets involved.

What's the difference between misconduct and poor performance for unemployment purposes?

Misconduct is willful or negligent behavior. Poor performance is just not being good at the job. Big difference for UI eligibility.

Phone interview? What do they ask in those?

basic stuff about why you got fired, your side of the story, work history. nothing too scary

Good point. I'll dig up my pay stubs and get everything together before I start the application.

Also have your social security card and ID ready in case the system asks for verification.

I didn't know that! Definitely filing today then.

Exactly. The benefit year is 52 weeks from when you file your initial claim.

What happens if they do contest it?

Then there's usually a phone interview where both sides tell their story. The adjudicator makes a decision based on the facts.

I went through this last year. Even if they contest it initially, you can still win if you have your facts straight.

That's reassuring. I wasn't faking being sick or anything, just had some health issues this year.

Then you should be fine. Just be honest in your application and any interviews.

Weekly claims? What's involved in that?

Just confirming you're still unemployed, reporting any work or income, and certifying you're looking for work. Takes like 5 minutes online.

And make sure you do it on time every week. Miss a week and you have to explain why to get that payment.

Might need to check that out if I run into issues. Thanks for the recommendation!

Yeah the regular phone system is basically impossible to get through. Any service that actually works is worth it.

Thanks everyone for all the advice! Filing my claim right now.

Good luck! Hope it goes smoothly for you.

How long do you have to file an appeal if needed?

I think it's 30 days from the date on the determination letter. Don't quote me on that though.

It is 30 days, and make sure you file the appeal even if you're not sure. You can always withdraw it later.

Will do! Hopefully it's straightforward but I'll post an update once I know more.

Good reminder. I was planning to start job hunting this week anyway.

Keep track of your job search activities too. They can ask for documentation of what you've been doing.

Exactly my thinking. Better to get the process started than sit around worrying about it.

Thanks! Yeah I've heard horror stories from friends in other states. Hopefully Washington ESD treats me fairly.