Good cause is really hard to prove though. I tried to quit my job because of stress and they said it wasn't good enough. Ended up having to stick it out until I found something else. The system is stacked against workers.

Emma, I went through something similar with my previous employer. The key thing is that "good cause" usually requires showing that you made reasonable efforts to resolve the issue first. For schedule changes and mandatory overtime, you'll want to document when you were notified, how it affected your life (childcare issues, etc.), and any attempts you made to discuss it with management. Massachusetts DUA looks for whether a "reasonable person" would have quit under those circumstances. If you haven't already, I'd suggest having a written conversation with your supervisor about the schedule issues and keep copies of everything. The more documentation you have showing the unreasonableness of their demands and your attempts to work it out, the stronger your case will be.

Hey Mia! I went through the exact same thing a few months ago. Here's what worked for me - first, definitely check your online account like others mentioned. But also, try calling first thing in the morning (like 8:01 AM) - that's when I had the best luck getting through. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you're doing your weekly certifications even if you haven't gotten paid yet. Missing those can really mess things up. The waiting is awful but hang in there - once it gets sorted out, you'll usually get all the back pay at once. Keep us posted on how it goes!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - it's been about 5 weeks for me with zero communication from DUA. The silence is honestly the worst part because you have no idea if something's wrong or if you're just stuck in the queue. I've been checking my online account obsessively and everything looks "pending" but no real updates. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences here - at least now I know I'm not alone in this mess. Going to try calling at 8:01 AM tomorrow like someone suggested. This whole system really needs an overhaul 😤

I had trouble getting through to DUA when I needed to check on my claim status last year. Phone lines are always busy and the online system can be glitchy. If you need to actually talk to someone, I found claimyr.com really helpful - they have a service that helps you get through to DUA agents. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/ok4BhTU0_EI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting disconnected.

Also remember you can't just quit your job and collect unemployment. You have to be laid off or terminated through no fault of your own. If you quit voluntarily, DUA will likely disqualify you unless you can prove it was for good cause like unsafe working conditions or harassment.

guys i think i broke the system?? i certified for benefits and now it says i owe them $9999999. anyone else get this glitch or am i going to unemployment jail? 😰

I'm going through something similar! Filed in late April and there's definitely confusion about which weeks you're eligible for. From what I've learned, there's usually a "waiting week" where you don't get paid for the first week you file, but it sounds like you might be missing more than that. A few things that helped me: - Log into your account daily to check for any status updates or required actions - Keep detailed records of every submission and date - Try calling early morning right when they open (around 8am) - much better chance of getting through - Check your spam folder for any emails from them The system is definitely overwhelmed right now, but don't give up! You're entitled to those benefits. Have you tried checking if there are any pending issues or required documents in your online account?

The whole unemployment system is rigged anyway. They'll find any excuse to deny your claim and then you have to waste months fighting it. I got denied initially even though my firing was completely bogus, had to go through the whole appeal process. Such a nightmare dealing with DUA bureaucracy.

I'm sorry to hear about your situation! As others have mentioned, you can absolutely get unemployment benefits even if you were fired - it really depends on the circumstances. Since you mentioned no formal write-ups or warnings over 2 years, that's actually a strong point in your favor. "Performance issues" without documented misconduct typically don't disqualify you from DUA benefits. I'd recommend filing your claim as soon as possible - you don't want to delay and potentially lose out on benefits you're entitled to. Make sure to be honest about the circumstances when you file, and keep any documentation you might have about your employment. The worst thing that can happen is they deny it and you can appeal. Good luck!