How do I appeal an unemployment insurance denial in Washington?

1. Agency. The Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) administers UI under Title 50 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW 50.01 et seq.).

2. Common Disqualifications. Voluntary quit without good cause (RCW 50.20.050), discharge for misconduct or gross misconduct (RCW 50.04.294), refusal of suitable work (RCW 50.20.080), not able and available (RCW 50.20.010(1)(c)), or receipt of severance/vacation pay.

3. Determination Notice. ESD mails a Determination Notice stating the reason for denial and appeal rights.

4. Appeal Deadline. 30 calendar days from the mailing date (RCW 50.32.020). Late appeals require good cause.

5. Filing the Appeal. File through eServices online, by mail to the ESD Appeals office, or by fax.

6. First-Level Hearing. The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) Administrative Law Judge conducts a telephonic de novo hearing (RCW 50.32.040). Both parties testify under oath, present documents, and cross-examine witnesses.

7. Burden of Proof. Employer bears the burden on misconduct discharge; claimant bears the burden on good-cause voluntary quit.

8. Decision. The ALJ issues a written Initial Order typically within 2-4 weeks.

9. Second-Level Administrative Appeal. Petition the ESD Commissioner's Review Office within 30 days (RCW 50.32.070). The Commissioner reviews on the record without new evidence.

10. Judicial Review. Appeal to the superior court of the county of residence within 30 days under RCW 50.32.120 and the Administrative Procedure Act (RCW 34.05.510 et seq.); review is on the substantial-evidence standard.

11. Continued Filing. Continue weekly certifications through eServices to preserve back pay.

12. Overpayment. If you lose, ESD issues an Overpayment Assessment; non-fault waiver is available where recovery would be against equity and good conscience (RCW 50.20.190).

This is legal information, not legal advice.