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Just saw this thread and wanted to add that I got approved for unemployment after being fired for falling asleep during a night shift. The key was documenting that I'd been working mandatory overtime for weeks and had requested schedule adjustments. Washington ESD ruled it wasn't willful misconduct.
I'm going through something very similar right now - got fired from my retail job for making a mistake during my shift after working 6 days straight because we were understaffed. Reading through all these responses is really helpful and gives me hope that Washington ESD will actually look at the full context rather than just the termination reason. It's frustrating how employers will push you to your breaking point and then act surprised when human limitations show up. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and advice!
Bottom line for OP: 1) Create SAW account, 2) File initial claim through eServices, 3) Start weekly claims after approval, 4) Keep job search records. Don't worry about account numbers - Washington ESD handles all that automatically.
I went through this exact process last month and can confirm what others have said. Create your SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account first - this is just the login portal. Then use that to access eServices where you'll file your actual unemployment claim. The system will automatically assign you an account (using your SSN as the identifier) when you submit your initial claim. No separate account number needed! The whole thing took me about an hour, and I had my monetary determination letter within 3 business days. Make sure you have all your employment history ready before you start - company names, addresses, dates, and reason for leaving each job. Good luck!
this whole thread has been super helpful! I was so confused by all the letters and numbers on the Washington ESD website. Now I actually understand what my UI claim status means when I log in to check it.
I'm so glad I found this thread! I just filed my first UI claim with Washington ESD last week and I've been completely overwhelmed by all the terminology. The website feels like it's written in a foreign language. This explanation of what UI actually means is exactly what I needed - I was also thinking it was some kind of tech term! Now I need to go back through all my paperwork and actually understand what it's telling me. Thank you everyone for breaking this down so clearly.
they always do this annoyin stuff right when u need benifits the most lol. classic ESD. glad u got in tho!
Great to hear you got in! For anyone else still struggling with this, I'd also recommend checking if your browser has any security settings that might be blocking cookies or JavaScript from government sites. Sometimes overly strict privacy settings can cause these endless refresh loops. Also, if you have a VPN running, try turning it off - some VPN IP ranges seem to trigger their fraud detection systems. The late night approach really does work best though!
Jenna Sloan
The similarity between collective bargaining and minimum wage effects comes down to both preventing market-clearing wages. When wages can't adjust to balance supply and demand for labor, quantity adjustments happen instead - meaning unemployment. It's basic price theory applied to labor markets.
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Tyler Murphy
•This has been really helpful for understanding the economics. Now I just need to focus on actually finding a job that fits Washington ESD's requirements.
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Christian Burns
•Good luck with the job search. Remember to keep detailed records of all your applications and contacts for Washington ESD.
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Khalil Urso
As someone who's been through this process, I can confirm that Washington ESD generally allows you to focus on positions matching your skill level and previous wages initially, but they do expect flexibility over time. The economic theory is interesting, but practically speaking, document everything - job applications, networking contacts, interviews, etc. I'd suggest keeping a spreadsheet with dates, company names, positions applied for, and any responses. Also consider looking into apprenticeship programs or retraining opportunities if your union background isn't leading to quick placement - Washington ESD sometimes has programs that can help bridge you into related fields while you're collecting benefits.
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