When fired how to get unemployment - Washington ESD eligibility questions

Yes, you can definitely apply for unemployment even if you were fired. Washington ESD will investigate whether the termination was for 'misconduct' or not. Performance issues usually don't count as misconduct unless it was willful or deliberate.

File immediately! Don't wait. Even if you're unsure about eligibility, it's better to apply and let Washington ESD make the determination. The worst they can do is deny you, but you might be surprised.

I went through this exact situation last year. Got fired for 'attendance issues' but it was really because I had to take time off for medical appointments. Washington ESD approved my claim after investigating. The key is documenting everything and being truthful in your application.

The system is so messed up. They make you jump through hoops even when you've been wrongfully terminated. Had a friend wait 2 months just to get denied because his employer lied about what happened.

been there done that, got fired for 'attitude problems' which was BS. still got my UI benefits tho. just tell the truth on the application

Here's what Washington ESD considers misconduct: deliberate violations of company policy, insubordination, theft, violence, or excessive absenteeism without good cause. Simple poor performance or lack of skills usually doesn't qualify as misconduct.

Make sure you have all your employment documents ready when you apply. Washington ESD will want to know your last day worked, your final pay, and the reason given for termination.

I'm going through this right now actually. Got fired 2 weeks ago and my claim is still in adjudication. It's nerve-wracking but my friends who've been through it say most people get approved unless it was really serious misconduct.

One thing to remember - even if Washington ESD initially denies your claim, you can appeal. I've seen plenty of cases where the appeal was successful even when the initial decision wasn't.

Also don't forget you'll need to do job searches once your claim is active. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week, so start keeping track from day one.

ugh the job search requirement is so annoying when you're already stressed about money. but ya gotta do it or they'll cut off your benefits

Just want to echo what others said about applying immediately. I waited a week thinking I needed to 'figure things out' first and basically lost a week of potential benefits. The waiting week starts from when you file, not when you were terminated.

If you run into issues reaching Washington ESD by phone, definitely check out Claimyr. I was getting so frustrated with busy signals and dropped calls until someone recommended it to me. Worth every penny to actually talk to a human.

My sister got fired from her retail job for being 'too slow' and still got unemployment. Like others said, poor performance isn't the same as misconduct. The bar for misconduct is pretty high.

One more tip - when you file weekly claims, there's a question about whether you were discharged from work. Make sure you answer honestly about the circumstances. Don't try to hide the fact that you were fired.

The whole process is designed to be intimidating but don't let it discourage you. Most people who get fired for non-misconduct reasons do end up getting approved. Just follow the rules and be patient.

I had to use Claimyr twice during my unemployment period - once when my claim got stuck in adjudication and once when I had questions about my job search requirements. Both times they got me through to someone who could actually help instead of just reading me the website info.

Last thought - don't stress too much about the initial application. You can always provide additional information later if Washington ESD requests it during their investigation. The important thing is getting that claim date established.