I'm so sorry you're going through this - workplace mental health issues are incredibly difficult to deal with. I had a similar situation about 8 months ago where my job was severely impacting my anxiety and panic attacks. One thing I learned is that ESD really wants to see that you explored ALL options before quitting. Beyond just complaining to HR, they like to see evidence that you requested specific accommodations under the ADA, asked for FMLA leave, or requested a transfer to a different department/supervisor. Even if these requests were denied, having documentation that you asked shows you were trying to preserve your employment. Also, make sure your therapist's documentation is very specific about how the workplace environment was directly causing or worsening your condition. Generic statements about having anxiety/depression aren't as strong as detailed notes connecting specific workplace incidents to your symptoms. The process is stressful, but don't give up if you get initially denied. I had to appeal twice before my claim was approved, but it was worth the fight. Your mental health is valid and important!

I'm currently in a very similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful. I've been dealing with severe burnout and panic attacks that my doctor says are directly caused by my hostile work environment. My manager has been creating impossible situations for me and then publicly humiliating me when I can't meet unrealistic expectations. Reading everyone's experiences, it sounds like the key is really thorough documentation and showing you tried everything possible before quitting. I'm going to start documenting every incident and formally request accommodations through HR before I make any decisions about leaving. For those who have been through this process - how specific do the therapist/doctor notes need to be? Should they mention specific workplace incidents, or is it enough for them to state that the work environment is causing the mental health issues? Also, has anyone had success getting approved without having to go through the appeal process, or does it seem like appeals are almost always necessary for mental health-related voluntary quits?

Thanks for asking this question OP. I'm sure there are other people in similar situations who will benefit from reading this discussion and learning about the resources that were shared.

I work with immigrant communities and wanted to add that some cities and counties in Washington have their own emergency assistance programs that don't have the same federal restrictions as unemployment benefits. King County, for example, has emergency rental assistance and other support programs. It's worth checking with your local city hall or county offices to see what's available in your specific area. Also, many community colleges offer free job training programs that could help you transition to other types of work while you're dealing with this situation.

The bottom line is Washington ESD wants to see that you're actively looking for work. Whether they verify every single application isn't really the point - it's about demonstrating good faith effort to find employment. Keep doing what you're doing and don't stress about things outside your control.

I've been collecting unemployment for about 6 months and went through an audit earlier this year. What helped me was keeping a simple Excel spreadsheet with columns for date, company name, position, how I applied, and any confirmation numbers or emails I received. When they audited me, I was able to provide everything they needed within a few days. The audit letter was pretty straightforward - they just wanted verification for about 8 specific job searches from certain weeks. None of the employers were actually contacted in my case, they just reviewed my documentation. As long as you're genuinely applying to real jobs and can show proof, you should be fine. The job market is tough right now so don't feel bad about the lack of responses - that's unfortunately normal.

UPDATE: I got my link for tomorrow's workshop!! Just came in about 30 minutes ago. Thanks everyone for the help and calming my nerves. Will let you know how it goes!

Wait, I'm confused - @Gabrielle posted the update about getting the link, but the original post was from Klaus. Are you two the same person or did Gabrielle accidentally post an update for someone else's situation? Just want to make sure I'm following the thread correctly!

One last tip - when you file your weekly claims, make sure you understand the difference between 'able and available' and actively seeking work. As a former business owner, they might question your availability for traditional employment.

I went through a similar situation when I had to close my marketing agency in 2023. One thing I wish I had known earlier is to keep detailed records of your business closure date and all the steps you took to wind down operations. Washington ESD will want to see evidence like your final client communications, office lease termination, business license cancellation, etc. Also, be prepared for them to ask about any business assets you might have sold or transferred - they want to make sure you're not just restructuring to collect benefits. The process can be lengthy but if you legitimately closed your business and paid unemployment taxes on your wages, you should qualify. Just be patient and have all your paperwork organized from the start.