Can I qualify for EDD if I quit due to hostile work environment and verbal abuse?

You might qualify for unemployment if you can prove you had "good cause" to quit. Hostile work environment can count, but you need to document EVERYTHING and you should try to resolve the issue internally first. Otherwise, EDD might determine you quit voluntarily without good cause. Here's what I'd recommend: 1. Document every incident with dates, times, witnesses 2. File formal complaints with HR (in writing, keep copies) 3. If you have medical evidence of anxiety/stress caused by work, get documentation from your doctor 4. Try to address the issues through proper channels before quitting When you apply for benefits, be very specific about why you had no choice but to leave. EDD will likely interview both you and your employer before making a decision.

yea u can get ui if u quit cuz of that but its HARD. they denied me first time even tho my boss was literally threatening me. had to appeal and wait like 2 months b4 getting paid. start looking for new job now tbh

I successfully got unemployment after quitting a toxic workplace, but it wasn't easy. The key is demonstrating that you tried to resolve the issues before quitting. In California, you need to show you've exhausted all reasonable alternatives to preserve your employment before quitting. Here's what worked for me: 1. I emailed HR and my manager's supervisor about the hostile environment (BCC'd to my personal email) 2. I requested a department transfer in writing 3. I sought medical treatment for work-related anxiety and got it documented 4. I gave my employer a final written notice stating that if the conditions didn't improve, I would have no choice but to resign When I finally quit, I had a paper trail showing I'd made every effort to save my job. During my EDD phone interview, I had specific dates and incidents ready to discuss. I was approved after the initial interview without needing to appeal. Make sure you use terms like "hostile work environment," "verbal abuse," and "workplace harassment" in your documentation and EDD application.

I had an identical situation in 2024 - manager screaming, HR colluding with them, even the pay manipulation! I quit after documenting everything for 2 months. The EDD process was frustrating because I couldn't get through on the phone for WEEKS to explain my situation after applying. I eventually used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual EDD representative. They've got this service that helps you bypass the phone queue. You can see how it works in their demo: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km Once I finally spoke to someone, I was able to explain the hostile work environment in detail. After my eligibility interview (which they scheduled 3 weeks later), I was approved. The key was having specific examples with dates and showing how it affected my health. The agent told me that medical documentation of workplace stress/anxiety made a big difference in their decision.

EDD IS A JOKE!!! I had WORSE than what you described - physical intimidation too - and they STILL denied me saying I "voluntarily quit without good cause." The system is RIGGED against workers!!!! Had all the documentation and everything. Appealed and waited FOUR MONTHS for a hearing date while broke! The ALJ finally reversed it but the damage was done by then. Had to move back with parents at 42 years old because of EDD's BS. GOOD LUCK getting any help from these people. They automatically side with employers no matter what abuse you suffered.

One important thing no one's mentioned: if your employer is manipulating your pay, that could be wage theft, which is DEFINITELY good cause to quit. Keep copies of your scheduled hours vs. what you're paid for. California takes wage theft very seriously. When you have your eligibility interview, bring up both issues separately: 1. Hostile work environment (verbal abuse, threatening behavior) 2. Wage and hour violations Either one can potentially qualify as good cause, but together they make a stronger case. During your phone interview, speak clearly and stick to facts rather than emotions. Mention specific incidents with dates. Also, consider filing a wage claim with the Labor Commissioner's Office if they're shorting your pay. That documentation can help your EDD case too.

wait cant u just say ur hours were cut? thats way easier to get approved for. if ur schedule keeps changing and ur getting less hours that might be partial unemployment

Thank you everyone for the incredibly helpful advice! I'm going to: 1. Document everything with specific dates/times/witnesses 2. File formal complaints with HR and request a department transfer in writing 3. See my doctor about the anxiety I'm experiencing 4. Look into both the wage claim and partial unemployment options I'll update this thread once I take these steps. Really appreciate all of your insights and personal experiences - makes me feel less alone in this situation.

anyone else notice edd phone lines r IMPOSSIBLE lately?? i tried for 3 weeks everyday, always gets the "too many callers" message and hangs up on me