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Good luck with your claim! Being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits. Washington ESD looks at the specific circumstances of each case.
Just remember that collecting unemployment benefits doesn't hurt your future job prospects. Employers understand that layoffs happen and using the safety net doesn't reflect poorly on you as a worker.
The key takeaway is that unemployment insurance is employer-funded, provides temporary income replacement based on your wages, and requires you to actively look for work. Washington ESD administers the program and you can collect benefits for up to 26 weeks if you qualify. File as soon as possible after job loss and keep good records of your work search activities.
Just remember that earning something is better than earning nothing. Even if your unemployment gets reduced, you're still bringing in more total income than just sitting on benefits alone. Plus you're gaining work experience.
Make sure your part-time employer knows you're on unemployment. Some employers are understanding and might be flexible with scheduling while you continue job searching for full-time work.
Remember you can work part-time while on unemployment but they'll reduce your benefits based on what you earn. There's a formula for that too but basically you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount before they start deducting.
The whole unemployment system seems complicated but once you get into the routine it's pretty manageable. File your weekly claims, do your job searches, and keep good records of everything.
Ellie Perry
Been through this twice unfortunately. First time I got denied because I was fired for violating safety rules. Second time got approved because I was terminated for not meeting sales targets. Washington ESD really does look at the specific circumstances.
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Ellie Perry
•Exactly. Misconduct has to be willful and work-related. Just not being good at your job isn't usually considered misconduct.
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Landon Morgan
•This distinction is really important. Wish more people understood it before panicking about their eligibility.
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Teresa Boyd
File online ASAP through SecureAccess Washington. The sooner you get your claim in the system, the sooner the process can start. Even if it takes weeks to resolve, at least the clock is ticking.
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Donna Cline
•Will do. Thanks for all the advice everyone. Feeling much more hopeful about this situation.
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Lourdes Fox
•Good luck with your claim! Keep us posted on how it goes.
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