Can I claim EDD benefits if I quit before company relocates out of state?

Yes, you should qualify for unemployment because this counts as a "good cause" quit. When your employer relocates beyond a reasonable commuting distance, EDD considers this a compelling reason to leave. You don't technically have to wait until they move - you can quit now and explain in your application that your job is being eliminated through no fault of your own due to relocation. Make sure to document EVERYTHING. Get the relocation announcement in writing, any emails about the inadequate relocation package, etc. When you file, be very clear that continuing employment would require relocating out of state which presents undue hardship (family obligations, cost, etc). EDD will likely contact your employer to verify.

DONT QUIT WITHOUT TALKING TO EDD FIRST!!!! My brother did this exact thing when his company moved to Texas and they DENIED his claim!!!! Said he "voluntarily quit" and had to fight it for MONTHS!!!! The system is RIGGED against workers!!!!

i was in this same boat in 2022!! my job moved 2 oregon & i couldnt go. i did unemployment no problem but wait till they give OFFICIAL notice of the move date. they made me wait till 2 weeks before the actual move date to quit, still got benefits tho

Here's what you need to know about quitting before a company relocation: 1. Under California unemployment insurance code, when an employer relocates beyond a reasonable commuting distance, this creates "good cause" for voluntary resignation. 2. Document everything! Get written confirmation of: - The relocation announcement with dates - The inadequate relocation package offered - Your attempt to negotiate a workable solution - Any changes in workplace conditions 3. When you quit, submit a formal resignation letter explicitly stating you're leaving due to the company relocation creating undue hardship. 4. On your EDD application, be very specific that your quit was due to employer relocation. Don't just mark "voluntary quit" without explanation. 5. You technically can quit now, but waiting until closer to the move date strengthens your case. Consider requesting reduced hours to job search if possible.

I tried to call EDD to ask a similar question about my situation and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get through. "We're experiencing high call volume" for weeks! So frustrating when you need actual answers to complicated situations like this.

just make sure u dont say u quit to look 4 other jobs!! my friend did that & got denied even tho the company was moving. u HAVE to say its bcuz of the relocation!!

wait but won't u get more money if u wait till they lay u off officially? that seems better than quitting early

Update: I spoke with HR today and they confirmed in writing that my position won't exist in California after March 15th. They also stated they understand if employees can't relocate and would "process the separation as a layoff due to business necessity" if I stay until at least February 1st. Does this change anything about my unemployment eligibility? Would it be better to wait until Feb 1st and get the official layoff rather than quitting now?

Something similar happened at my last company. If they officially process it as a layoff, make sure to ask for a formal layoff letter stating the reason is due to business relocation. This will make your EDD application seamless. I'd personally wait until February 1st since it's only 6-7 weeks away, but use this time to update your resume and start networking. My employer gave us 3 months notice and I used the first month to prep while still getting paid, then got laid off officially, which gave me both unemployment and severance while job hunting.

congrats!! that layoff letter is like gold for EDD!!

This is such a relief to read your update! Getting that official layoff classification is definitely the way to go if you can wait until February 1st. I went through something similar when my company moved operations to Nevada in 2020. A few things that helped me during that transition period: 1. Use your remaining time there wisely - network internally, ask for LinkedIn recommendations from colleagues before they scatter, and get copies of any work samples you might need for interviews. 2. Consider reaching out to recruiters now so you're in their pipeline for January/February openings. Many companies have hiring freezes in December but ramp up in Q1. 3. If your company offers any career transition services or job placement assistance, take advantage of it! Mine provided resume writing help and interview coaching. 4. Document everything about your role and achievements while it's fresh - this will help with interview prep later. You're in a much better position now knowing they'll classify it as a layoff. The job market in California has been pretty strong in most sectors, so hopefully you'll find something great before you even need to file for unemployment!