Can you get unemployment if you quit - Washington ESD eligibility rules?

What kind of documentation would I need? I haven't been writing anything down but there have been witnesses to the yelling.

Start documenting everything now - dates, times, what was said, who witnessed it. Email yourself summaries after incidents. If you file a complaint with HR, keep copies of everything.

How long did the appeal process take? I'm already stressed about money.

About 6 weeks total, but that was during a busy period. The hardest part was actually getting someone on the phone to explain the details of my case.

I'm worried that filing a complaint will just make things worse before I can find another job.

That's a valid concern, but it might be necessary for your UI claim. You could also start job searching now while documenting the issues.

Thanks, I'll check that out. Getting through to Washington ESD by phone seems impossible these days.

Is this some kind of paid service? Seems sketchy to pay money just to make a phone call.

It's legit - they basically handle the calling process for you. Worth it when you really need to talk to someone about complex situations like voluntary quits.

What kind of documentation would I need? I have some emails from my manager but not sure if that's enough.

Keep all emails, texts, witness statements if possible, and document specific incidents with dates and times. The more evidence you have of the hostile work environment, the better your chances during the Washington ESD review process.

That's why documentation is so crucial. Physical threats or violence definitely qualify as good cause, but you have to be able to prove it happened.

Yeah she eventually won her appeal but it was such a nightmare dealing with the bureaucracy.

How long did the adjudication take? I'm worried about the gap in income while they decide.

Mine took about 6 weeks but that was during a busy period. The waiting is the hardest part, especially when you're already stressed from the job situation.

That's actually a good idea. I should probably find out for sure before I do anything drastic. Thanks for the suggestion!

Never heard of that service but honestly anything that helps get through to ESD is worth trying. Those phone lines are impossible.

Washington ESD recognizes several types of good cause: unsafe working conditions, harassment, significant changes to job duties or pay, health issues, domestic violence situations, and constructive discharge situations.

Verbal abuse can qualify if it's severe and ongoing. The key is showing a pattern of behavior that would make any reasonable person quit.

How much longer are we talking? I really can't afford to go months without income.

In my case it was an extra 2-3 weeks while they investigated, but it varies depending on how complex your situation is.

Should I file a complaint with HR first? Would that help my case?

YES! Filing with HR shows you tried to resolve the issue through proper channels first. Keep copies of everything you submit and their responses (or lack thereof).

This is solid advice. ESD wants to see that you made reasonable attempts to fix the situation before quitting.

Did she have to prove the harassment legally or just show it was happening?

she didn't press charges but she had witnesses and text messages. i think the key was showing she tried to handle it internally first

While the process can be frustrating, people do successfully get benefits after quitting when they have proper documentation and good cause. It's about knowing how to present your case.

maybe but they make it as difficult as possible on purpose

What about verbal abuse or creating a hostile work environment? Where does that fall?

That could potentially qualify under harassment or hostile work environment, but you'd need strong documentation. It's one of the harder cases to prove since it's often he said/she said.

I had a similar situation and got denied initially but won on appeal. Sometimes the first reviewer doesn't see the full picture.

Good point. How soon after quitting should I apply?

As soon as possible after your last day of work. The sooner you file, the sooner your benefit year starts, even if there are delays in processing.

I work for a small company so there's nowhere to transfer to. HR is basically just the owner's wife.

That definitely complicates things but could actually help your case since it shows limited options for internal resolution. Make sure to document that fact.

That gives me hope. Did she use a lawyer or handle the process herself?

She did it herself but had help from a friend who knew the system. Having all the paperwork organized was the most important part.

That's really helpful to know. I'm definitely going to need to talk to someone about my specific circumstances.

I used them too when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines. Made the whole process way less stressful.

Good point. Should I mention the harassment in my resignation letter?

I would keep it professional but factual. Something like 'due to ongoing workplace issues that have not been resolved despite my attempts to address them through proper channels.

Exactly. Don't get emotional in the letter even though the situation is emotional. Stick to facts and dates.

Right, I forgot about the job search requirements. How many jobs do you have to apply to each week?

It varies based on your situation, but typically 3 job search activities per week. Can include applications, networking, job fairs, etc.

That's what I'm worried about. I don't have much in savings and bills don't stop coming.

I know it's tough. That's another reason why talking to ESD directly beforehand might help - they can give you a better sense of whether your situation would likely qualify. The Claimyr service I mentioned earlier (claimyr.com) might be worth checking out for that.

I hadn't thought about the mental health angle. Would I need documentation from a doctor?

It would definitely help to have medical documentation linking your mental health issues to the work environment. Talk to your doctor about it.

How long do you have to file an appeal?

You have 30 days from the date of the denial letter to file your appeal with Washington ESD. Don't wait until the last minute though - give yourself time to gather additional evidence.

I get the frustration but they have to prevent people from gaming the system. Without some verification process, everyone would claim harassment to get benefits after quitting.

i guess that makes sense but it still sucks when you're in a legitimately bad situation

I didn't know about that option. Would filing a complaint there help with my unemployment claim?

It shows you took the situation seriously enough to file with a state agency, which supports your claim that you had good cause to quit. Plus they might be able to help with the underlying problem.

Should I attach all my documentation when I first apply or wait until they ask for it?

Submit key documents with your application but don't overwhelm them. Focus on the most compelling evidence first, then provide additional documentation if requested during adjudication.

Did they help you understand the good cause requirements better?

Yes, the ESD agent I spoke with walked me through exactly what documentation I needed and what the review process would look like. Made the whole thing less scary.

Thanks for saying that. I've been feeling pretty isolated dealing with this.

You're definitely not alone. Toxic work situations are more common than people realize. Focus on taking care of yourself while you figure out the next steps.

That's a good point I hadn't thought of. Should I consult with an employment lawyer too?

If the harassment is severe or you're considering legal action beyond just unemployment benefits, a consultation might be worth it. Many offer free initial consultations.

This has been incredibly helpful. I feel like I have a much better understanding of what I need to do. Thank you everyone!

Good luck with whatever you decide. Remember that your mental health and safety are important too - don't sacrifice your wellbeing for a paycheck if you have other options.

Thanks for the support. This whole situation is really stressful but these responses have been super helpful.

That's a good idea. I'll look into employment attorneys in my area.

Washington State Bar Association has a lawyer referral service if you need help finding someone.

Thank you, I really appreciate all the advice everyone has given me here.

Good to know. I'll keep that in mind if I do end up applying and get denied initially.

Exactly right. The appeal process exists for a reason and many legitimate cases get approved on appeal.

That sounds really valuable. I think I'm going to need that kind of detailed guidance for my situation.

Thank you, that's really thoughtful. This whole situation has been really hard on me emotionally.

Yes, the uncertainty is killing me. But all this information has helped me feel more prepared for whatever I decide to do.

That's good to hear. You've got this - just take it one step at a time.