Can I collect Washington ESD unemployment if I quit my job to move to another state?

That's what I was afraid of. So even though it's for my spouse's job, Washington ESD won't consider it good cause?

Correct. Moving for a spouse's job is considered a personal choice rather than work-related good cause under Washington unemployment law.

Those exceptions are very narrow and typically involve immediate safety concerns, not job relocations.

I'll call Washington ESD to double-check, but it sounds like I shouldn't count on it.

That's a good point. I'll look into Oregon's unemployment system too. Do you know if they have different rules about quitting to relocate?

Each state has different rules, so Oregon might be more lenient about relocation as good cause. Worth checking their website or calling their unemployment office.

Thanks for the tip! I'll check out that video. Did they end up approving your claim?

In my case it was a different issue, but the agent was able to explain exactly what documentation I needed and what would qualify as good cause.

Unfortunately my job requires being on-site. It's manufacturing work so remote isn't an option.

That's tough. In that case, you might want to time your move carefully - maybe look for work in Oregon first and see if you can line something up before quitting.

That's not good advice. If you knowingly file an ineligible claim, it could cause problems with future unemployment applications and might be considered fraud.

oh i didnt know that could be fraud, nevermind then

I agree it's frustrating. I've been paying into the system for years and now when I need help during a major life transition, the rules seem designed to exclude people.

The rules are strict, but they're based on the principle that unemployment insurance is for people who lose jobs through no fault of their own and are available to work in the state that's paying the benefits.

That's an interesting idea. I have a good relationship with my manager, so maybe I could ask about that option.

It's worth asking. Some employers are understanding about family situations and might be willing to help if they can afford to let you go anyway.

That's complicated logistically, but I'll look into Oregon's residency requirements for unemployment claims.

Each state has different rules about work history and residency, so it's worth researching both options thoroughly.

Good point. I definitely don't want to hurt my chances of getting benefits in the future if I need them.

Exactly. It's worth having a complete understanding of the long-term implications before making the decision.

How long did it take you to find work in California?

About 6 weeks, but I was lucky to have some savings set aside. Definitely try to have a financial cushion if you can.

Completely agree. The system is outdated and doesn't reflect modern job market realities.

While I understand the frustration, the system is designed to provide benefits for involuntary job loss. Expanding it to cover voluntary moves would require significant changes to funding and eligibility structures.

We're not military, but I'll look into whether there are any other special circumstances provisions I might qualify for.

Worth checking the Washington ESD website thoroughly or calling to ask about any exceptions you might not be aware of.

Thanks for the reminder. I'm definitely going to try that service since I need clear answers before making this big decision.

I've heard good things about that service too. Sometimes you need to talk to a real person to understand all your options.

That's a good suggestion. I'll talk to my spouse about whether that's possible with their new employer.

Many employers are understanding about relocation logistics, especially if it helps them get a good employee.

Will do! I'll post an update once I get some definitive answers about my options.

Thanks! These kinds of real-world examples really help other people understand how the system works.

Thank you! I really appreciate all the advice and support from everyone here.

That's what these forums are for - helping each other through these challenging situations.

Great advice. I'll make sure to document everything thoroughly.

Documentation is always key with unemployment claims, regardless of which state you're dealing with.

That seems to be the consensus - talking to a real person makes a huge difference in understanding your options.

Absolutely. The written rules can be confusing, but agents can explain how they apply to your specific situation.

Thank you so much. It's reassuring to know that even if the benefits don't work out, we're making the right decision for our family's future.

Exactly. Sometimes you have to make tough financial decisions for long-term family goals.