Bottom line - file for your benefits! You've earned them by working and paying into the system. Don't let unfounded fears keep you from getting help you need and deserve.

I'm glad you asked this question because it shows how much misinformation is out there about unemployment benefits! As someone who's worked in both corporate finance and now as a freelance consultant, I can confirm that filing for UI benefits has absolutely zero impact on your employment prospects. I've filed twice - once after a merger eliminated my position and again during the pandemic - and it never came up in any interviews or background checks. The system is designed to be confidential for exactly this reason. Don't let stigma or fear keep you from accessing benefits you've literally paid for through your payroll deductions. File that claim and focus your energy on your job search instead of worrying about non-existent consequences!

Remember that the judge is supposed to be neutral. They're not on your employer's side or your side - they're just trying to determine what actually happened based on the evidence. Try to present facts rather than emotions, even though I know this situation is really stressful financially.

Dylan, I went through a similar situation about 8 months ago when my employer claimed I was terminated for misconduct but it was really just a disagreement over procedures. The most important thing I learned is to focus on the specific incident they're claiming as misconduct - don't let them bring up unrelated performance issues or personality conflicts. Take notes during the hearing because you might need to reference what was said if you decide to appeal further. Also, if your employer makes any statements that contradict what they told you when you were fired, point that out to the judge. Inconsistencies in their story can really help your case. The whole process took about 4 months total for me but I did eventually get my benefits restored with back pay.

Thanks everyone for the helpful info! Just to make sure I understand: I need to file a claim for the waiting week even though I won't get paid, and if I don't, my benefits will be delayed. I'll make sure to do that right away. One more question - does the waiting week count toward my total benefit weeks? Like if I'm approved for 26 weeks, does that include the waiting week or is it 26 paid weeks plus the unpaid waiting week?

I went through this same thing a few months ago and was so confused! The waiting week really caught me off guard financially. One tip that helped me - I used that first week to really organize my job search strategy and get familiar with the ESD system. Since you have to file the claim anyway but won't get paid, it's a good time to make sure you understand all the requirements like work search activities and how to properly fill out your weekly claims. That way when your paid weeks start, you won't have any hiccups. Also, definitely set up direct deposit if you haven't already - it makes getting your benefits much faster once they start coming.

One last thing - keep detailed records of everything related to your claim. Dates, times of calls, copies of all documents, weekly claim confirmations. If any issues come up later, having good records will save you a lot of headaches.

I'm in a very similar situation - just lost my weekend retail job but still have my weekday office job. Reading through all these responses has been incredibly helpful! I had no idea partial unemployment was even an option. The earnings deduction formula that @Jasmine Hancock explained really helps me understand what to expect. I'm definitely going to file this week rather than continuing to stress about making ends meet with just one job. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - it's reassuring to know I'm not alone in navigating this complicated situation.

Good luck with whatever you decide to do. Toxic work environments are no joke and sometimes your mental health is more important than a paycheck. Just make sure you have a plan before you make any big moves.

I went through something very similar about a year ago - started a job, realized it was a terrible fit with management issues, and was terrified about my unemployment eligibility. What really helped me was contacting an employment attorney for a free consultation. They explained that Washington is pretty worker-friendly when it comes to constructive dismissal (basically being forced to quit due to intolerable conditions). If you're documenting the inappropriate behavior and hostile environment, you may have stronger protections than you think. Also, consider reaching out to your state's labor department about the harassment - sometimes having an official complaint on file can strengthen your case if you do need to quit. Don't let a bad supervisor destroy your mental health, but definitely get your ducks in a row first.