Why does it say disqualification on my Washington ESD unemployment claim?

I checked and there's one letter dated 3 days ago but it just says 'disqualification determination' without specifics. This is so confusing.

That letter should have details about the specific reason and your appeal rights. Sometimes the system is slow to update with full details.

How did you finally reach them? I've been trying to call for two days straight.

honestly I used this service called claimyr.com that calls them for you. they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. saved me hours of trying to get through

Never heard of that but I'm desperate at this point. Did it actually work?

How can I tell the difference? The letter doesn't seem to specify which type it is.

Look for language about 'until you meet requirements' versus 'for the duration of your claim.' Also check if there's a specific number of weeks mentioned.

I feel your frustration but complaining won't help OP solve their problem right now.

Fair point, just venting because I went through the same runaround for weeks.

I don't think so? My supervisor seemed understanding when they let me go due to downsizing. Would I be notified if they contested it?

Usually yes, but not always immediately. Check your correspondence section again for any notices about employer protests or fact-finding questionnaires.

There is a form titled 'separation information request' that I missed somehow. Should I fill this out immediately?

Thank you! I'm filling it out right now. Should I also try calling them or just submit the form?

Submit the form first since you have it, but calling can help speed up the process. The phone lines are brutal though.

That's somewhat reassuring. How long did it take to get resolved?

About 2 weeks after I submitted the paperwork they requested. Got backpay for the weeks I missed too.

How much does something like that cost? Seems too good to be true.

It's not free but honestly worth it when you're facing financial stress. Much cheaper than missing more unemployment payments.

I'm seriously considering this if I can't get through on my own in the next day or two.

Good point. My letter is dated from 3 days ago so I have time, but I don't want to wait too long.

Exactly. Appeals can take months to process so it's better to file one as backup even if you think you can resolve it directly.

I thought I was but maybe I made a mistake? I've been applying to jobs and logging them in the system.

check if you have the right number of activities per week and if theyre all qualifying activities. some things dont count

The job search requirements changed recently so older information online might not be accurate anymore.

Should I attach any documentation like my layoff notice or emails from my supervisor?

Absolutely! Any documentation that proves you were laid off rather than quit or fired for cause will help your case significantly.

Wow, that's crazy but would explain why there's no clear explanation in my letter.

Yeah it was a mess. He had to provide extra ID verification and everything. Took like a month to straighten out.

I submitted the form yesterday with all my layoff documentation. Still haven't gotten through by phone - might try claimyr today if nothing changes.

Good call on the documentation. Sometimes the form submission alone is enough to trigger a review and reversal.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. How did you prove your employer was wrong?

had to gather all my employment records, emails, witness statements from coworkers. became a whole production but worth it in the end

While I agree the system is frustrating, they do have to prevent fraud and verify eligibility. The process could definitely be clearer though.

Sure but sending a generic disqualification notice without explanation isn't fraud prevention, it's just poor communication.

That's encouraging. I'm trying to be as thorough as possible with my response.

Also don't be afraid to include extra documentation if you think it supports your case. Better to provide too much information than too little.

Will do! Hopefully I hear something in the next few days. This whole process is so stressful when you're already dealing with job loss.

Tell me about it. The uncertainty is almost worse than the financial stress sometimes.

That's really good to know. I'm giving my form submission until tomorrow and then I'll probably try that route.

Thanks for sharing your experience. It's helpful to know what actually works versus just hoping things resolve themselves.