Can I collect unemployment if I quit my job in Washington?

What kind of documentation would I need to prove good cause? I don't have anything in writing about the hostile work environment.

You'll want to document everything - dates, times, witnesses, any emails or messages. Also consider filing complaints with HR first if possible, as Washington ESD may want to see that you tried to resolve the situation before quitting.

How long did it take Washington ESD to make a decision on your claim? I'm worried about the waiting period.

It took about 6 weeks because they had to investigate everything thoroughly. They interviewed me, my former employer, and even some witnesses. But I was eventually approved because I could prove constructive discharge.

Never heard of that service before. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legitimate - they just help you get through the phone system more efficiently. I used it when I was having issues with my claim status and got connected to an actual ESD agent within 30 minutes instead of spending hours on hold.

What's the typical waiting period if they determine I had good cause?

If you're approved for good cause, there's usually no additional waiting period beyond the standard one week. But if they deny your claim, you could be disqualified from benefits entirely.

I'm sorry you went through that. Sexual harassment is definitely considered good cause for quitting. Did you eventually get your benefits approved?

yeah eventually but it took 3 months and multiple appeals. the whole process was traumatic on top of what i already went through at work

That's generally not a good strategy because employers often document performance issues as misconduct, which would disqualify you from benefits anyway.

true, just thought it might be easier than proving good cause for quitting

That's exactly what my situation was - constructive discharge. The key is showing that working conditions became so intolerable that any reasonable person would have felt compelled to quit.

Make sure you understand the difference between just not liking your job and actual constructive discharge. Washington ESD has pretty strict standards for what qualifies.

What kind of documentation is most convincing to Washington ESD? Emails, witness statements, medical records?

All of the above if relevant. Medical records are especially powerful if the work environment was affecting your health. Email chains showing the progression of problems are also very helpful.

I've been looking for other jobs but the market is tough right now. That's part of why I'm worried about quitting without being sure about unemployment.

Smart thinking. Better to have a backup plan than to assume you'll get benefits.

That's a good idea. Do you know if there are any free legal services in Washington that handle employment issues?

Yes, there are several legal aid organizations that help with employment issues. Search for 'Washington State legal aid employment' to find resources in your area.

How detailed did you have to be in your application about why you quit?

Very detailed. They asked for specific dates, what happened, who was involved, what I did to try to fix it, and why I felt I had to quit. Then they scheduled a phone interview to go over everything again.

So I'd still have to do job searches even while they're deciding whether to approve my claim?

Yes, the job search requirement doesn't change just because you're waiting for a decision on your eligibility. You need to log at least 3 job search activities per week.

Is the appeals process complicated? Do I need a lawyer for that?

You don't need a lawyer but it can be helpful, especially for complex cases. The appeals process involves a hearing where you can present your evidence and testimony.

Yeah, I've used Claimyr a couple times now when I needed to talk to someone at ESD. Much better than spending hours redialing the same number over and over.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already worried about money if I quit my job.

Really? I didn't know that. How long do they keep those records?

They keep records indefinitely. If you have a pattern of quitting jobs and applying for unemployment, they'll take that into consideration on future claims.

You're right. I should probably try to address this through proper channels first before making any drastic decisions.

exactly. and if you do end up having to quit, you'll have a much stronger case for good cause if you can show you tried everything else first

That's a good point. Maybe I should stand my ground and force them to either fix the problems or terminate me.

Just be careful not to give them legitimate reasons to fire you for cause. Keep doing your job well while you document the problems.

Thanks for the recommendation. I'll keep that in mind if I need to speak with someone at ESD about my specific situation.

I was skeptical about using a service like that at first, but after trying to call ESD directly for weeks without success, I gave it a try and it actually worked. Connected me to an agent who was able to answer all my questions about voluntary separation.

Good decision. That documentation will be crucial if you do end up having to quit and file for unemployment benefits.

Smart move. Hope HR takes your complaint seriously and actually does something about the situation.

Thanks again everyone. This forum has been really helpful in understanding my options and the potential consequences of different choices.