I quit my job can I get unemployment benefits through NYS Department of Labor?
So I finally had enough of my toxic workplace and quit last Friday. My manager was constantly berating me and creating a hostile environment that was affecting my mental health. I've been working there for 2 years and really need the income while I look for something else. Can I still file for unemployment benefits with NYS Department of Labor even though I quit? I heard there might be exceptions for good cause but I'm not sure what that means or how to prove it. Has anyone been in a similar situation?
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Roger Romero
Generally quitting disqualifies you from unemployment benefits, but NYS Department of Labor does recognize 'good cause' situations. Hostile work environment can qualify if you can document it. You'll need evidence like emails, witness statements, or HR complaints to support your case. When you file your claim, be very detailed about why you quit and provide any documentation you have.
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Danielle Mays
•I do have some emails where my manager was really inappropriate and one coworker said they'd be willing to give a statement. Should I file the claim right away or wait until I have everything together?
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Anna Kerber
omg same thing happened to me except i stayed way too long and it made me sick. you did the right thing leaving but yeah unemployment is tricky when you quit
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Niko Ramsey
File your claim immediately - don't wait. NYS Department of Labor has a waiting period anyway, and you can submit additional documentation during the adjudication process. The key is establishing a pattern of hostile behavior that made continuing employment unreasonable. Document everything - dates, incidents, any medical issues it caused. Good cause also includes things like significant changes to job duties, unsafe working conditions, or harassment.
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Seraphina Delan
•This is really helpful info. How long does the adjudication usually take for quit cases? I'm worried about paying rent while this gets sorted out.
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Jabari-Jo
I had major issues getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I needed to discuss my disqualification appeal. The phone lines are always busy and the online system doesn't let you explain complex situations very well. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me actually reach a real person at NYS Department of Labor. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. It was really helpful for explaining my specific circumstances to an adjudicator.
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Danielle Mays
•Thanks for the suggestion! Did they help you get your benefits approved after quitting?
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Kristin Frank
The system is so frustrating!! I quit my job because my boss was making racist comments and it took MONTHS to get approved. NYS Department of Labor really puts you through the wringer even when you have a legitimate reason. Just be prepared for a long fight.
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