Can you file unemployment if you resign in Washington - confused about eligibility

What counts as 'good cause'? My situation is more about a toxic manager making my life miserable but I'm not sure if that qualifies.

Toxic management can qualify if you can document harassment, discrimination, or unsafe conditions. Keep records of everything - emails, incidents, witnesses if possible.

How long did the appeal process take? I'm worried about being without income for months.

Mine took about 6 weeks total. The hearing was actually pretty straightforward once I had my documentation together.

Never heard of that service. Is it legit? Washington ESD phone lines are definitely impossible to get through to.

Yeah it's real, they basically keep calling until they get you connected to an actual person. Saved me probably 50+ hours of redialing.

That might be helpful if I decide to file. The thought of trying to reach Washington ESD by phone is already stressing me out.

We don't really have HR, it's a small company. The owner is basically my boss and he's the problem.

That makes it tougher but document everything anyway. Even small companies have legal obligations about workplace conditions.

I know that's the smart thing to do but this situation is really affecting my mental health. Sometimes you have to prioritize your wellbeing.

I understand that completely. Mental health is important too. Just make sure you understand the financial risk you're taking.

This is really helpful. I had no idea there were specific categories they look for.

My situation might fall under harassment. Boss has been making comments about my appearance and gives me impossible deadlines while others get easy assignments.

That could definitely qualify. Start documenting dates, times, witnesses, and any written communication about these incidents.

Good to know it's possible. Did you have to provide a lot of documentation during adjudication?

Yeah, timesheets, emails, pay stubs showing the unpaid hours. The more evidence the better.

Right, I'd definitely be looking for work immediately. How many jobs do you have to apply to each week in Washington?

It's 3 job search activities per week minimum, but they can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Check the WorkSourceWA website for details.

I agree it's confusing but the rules exist to prevent fraud and make sure benefits go to people who lost jobs through no fault of their own.

i get that but when you're dealing with a terrible work situation you shouldnt have to become a lawyer to figure out if you qualify

You mentioned that calling service earlier - do they help with appeals too or just initial claims?

They just help you get connected to Washington ESD staff on the phone. But that's super valuable during appeals because you can ask specific questions about your case.

Definitely won't lie about it. Just trying to figure out if my situation actually qualifies before I make any decisions.

Smart approach. Maybe consult with an employment attorney too if you're unsure. Many offer free consultations.

How did you handle the stress of staying in a toxic environment? I'm worried it's going to affect my work performance and make things worse.

It was rough but I focused on my exit strategy and tried to document everything just in case. Having a plan helped me feel more in control.

Good point. That's definitely less than I make now but might be enough to get by temporarily.

The actual amount depends on your earnings history. Washington ESD calculates it based on your highest quarter in the base period.

I hadn't thought about that. Would filing a complaint with them strengthen my case with Washington ESD?

It shows you took formal steps to address the problem, which Washington ESD likes to see. Plus it creates an official record of the issues.

Thank you, that means a lot. It's been really helpful getting all these perspectives.

Will do. I think I have enough information now to make an informed decision. Really appreciate everyone's help.

Keep us posted on what you decide! This info will probably help other people in similar situations.

That's a great suggestion. Better to know for sure before I make any big decisions.

Agreed, talking to someone there can save you a lot of time and stress if you don't actually qualify.

Sorry that happened to you. This is exactly why I'm trying to research everything first.

yeah definitely smart to ask questions first. wish i had done that

Good to know. My employer definitely seems like the type who would contest it just to be difficult.

That's pretty common unfortunately. But if you have legitimate good cause and proper documentation, you should be fine even if they contest it.

Glad it was helpful for others too. I definitely learned a lot from everyone's responses.