Can you file for unemployment if you quit your job in Washington?

What exactly counts as 'good cause'? Is workplace harassment or unsafe conditions something they would consider?

Yes, both of those could qualify as good cause, but you'll need documentation to prove it. Keep records of everything - emails, witness statements, complaints you filed with HR, etc.

How long did the adjudication process take for you? I'm worried about the gap in income.

Mine took about 6 weeks, which was frustrating. But once they approved it, I got back pay for the whole period.

Is that one of those services that charges you? I'm already strapped for cash.

They do charge, but it was worth it for me to get answers quickly rather than spending days trying to call. Saved me a lot of stress.

Start documenting everything NOW if you haven't already. Keep a detailed log of incidents with dates, times, and any witnesses present. Even if it's after the fact, contemporaneous notes can help your case.

Also check if your company has an HR department or employee handbook. Sometimes there are policies about reporting hostile work environments that you need to follow first.

What happened during your appeals process? Did you eventually get approved?

Yes, but it took forever. I had to provide more documentation and explain why I didn't try to resolve the issues before quitting. The hearing officer was thorough but fair.

I've tried talking to my supervisor multiple times, but they're actually part of the problem. We don't really have an HR department - it's a small company.

That actually helps your case. If there's no HR or proper channels to address issues, that strengthens the argument that you had no reasonable alternative but to quit.

Even in hostile situations, trying to follow proper procedures can help your unemployment case later. But I understand how difficult that can be when you're dealing with a toxic workplace.

Health issues can definitely qualify, especially if your employer failed to provide reasonable accommodations. You'll need medical documentation and evidence that you requested accommodations.

Make sure you've gone through the proper ADA accommodation process if applicable. Washington ESD will look at whether your employer violated their obligations.

Did they help you understand what documentation you'd need for your specific situation?

Yes, the ESD agent was able to walk me through exactly what they'd be looking for during the adjudication process. It was really helpful to know what to expect.

Good point - I should make sure I'm prepared for all the job search requirements if I do end up filing.

Substantial changes to your job that weren't part of your original agreement can sometimes qualify as good cause, especially if it affects your pay or working conditions significantly.

I had a similar situation where they completely changed my schedule and responsibilities. Washington ESD approved my claim because they considered it a constructive dismissal.

That's good advice. I was wondering if I should try to frame it differently, but honesty is probably the best policy.

Absolutely. Washington ESD has heard every story - they're looking for legitimate reasons backed up by documentation, not creative explanations.

That's exactly what I was worried about. The financial gap could be really difficult to manage.

Was it worth the cost to use their service? I'm hesitant to pay for something when I'm already worried about money.

For me it was worth it because I got definitive answers about my situation instead of just guessing. Helped me prepare properly for the adjudication process.

Are the job search requirements the same whether you were fired or quit, assuming you qualify for benefits?

Yes, once you're approved for benefits, the ongoing requirements are the same regardless of how your employment ended.

That's a good suggestion. I hadn't thought about getting legal advice first.

Many attorneys offer free consultations, and they can help you understand both your unemployment eligibility and any potential legal claims you might have.

How detailed did your statements need to be? I'm worried about getting everything documented properly.

Very detailed - dates, times, what was said, who was present, how it affected your work. The more specific you can be, the stronger your case will be.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I think I need to start documenting everything and maybe talk to someone at Washington ESD before I make any decisions.

That's smart. Getting professional guidance on your specific situation is always the best approach before making a big decision like this.