


Ask the community...
Bottom line: being fired for performance issues is NOT the same as being fired for misconduct. You should be eligible for benefits. File immediately and don't let anyone tell you otherwise without checking with Washington ESD directly.
One final tip - when you file your Washington ESD claim, be prepared for your employer to contest it. They often do this automatically to avoid their unemployment tax rate going up.
Update: Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to file the L&I complaint this week, keep documenting everything, and start job searching. If things don't improve in the next couple weeks, I'll quit with proper notice and file for unemployment. Really appreciate having a plan now.
Outstanding issues are the worst part of the whole unemployment system. At least once you get through to someone they can usually resolve it pretty quickly.
Been following this thread and wanted to add - if you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD about your claim status, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually does work. Used it myself when I couldn't get through their phone system. Worth checking out the demo video they linked if you're frustrated with busy signals.
Bottom line - file your claim regardless of being fired. Let Washington ESD make the determination rather than assuming you don't qualify. Worst case scenario is they say no, but many people who were terminated still qualify for benefits. You've got nothing to lose by filing.
Omar Farouk
If your issue is urgent, you might also try contacting your state representative's office. They sometimes have direct lines to Washington ESD that can help expedite things.
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CosmicCadet
•Really? I had no idea state reps could help with unemployment issues.
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Omar Farouk
•Yeah, they have constituent services that can sometimes help navigate bureaucratic issues. Worth a shot if you're really stuck.
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Chloe Harris
Bottom line: 833-572-8400 is the right number but be prepared for a long wait or multiple attempts. The Washington ESD phone system is just overwhelmed. Those third-party calling services like Claimyr might be worth it if you value your time and sanity.
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Diego Mendoza
•This whole thread has been super helpful. At least now I know what to expect when I start calling.
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Giovanni Conti
•Thanks everyone for all the advice! I'll try calling early tomorrow morning and if that doesn't work I might look into that Claimyr thing.
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