Does job abandonment qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington?

I didn't make any formal complaints because I was afraid of retaliation. Do you think that hurts my case?

It makes it harder but not impossible. Washington ESD will look at the totality of circumstances. Try to gather any evidence you have - text messages, emails, witness statements from coworkers.

This is true. I know someone who won their appeal after job abandonment because they could prove harassment.

How long does the appeal process usually take? I'm really strapped for cash right now.

What kind of documentation did you use? I'm worried I don't have enough proof.

I had screenshots of scheduling changes made last minute, a doctor's note about stress-related symptoms, and statements from two former coworkers who witnessed the manager's behavior.

Never heard of this before. Is it legit? I'm desperate to talk to someone at Washington ESD about my options.

Yeah it's legitimate. They basically help you get through the phone queue without having to redial constantly. Saved me hours of frustration.

What counts as proof though? I'm in a similar boat and worried about applying.

anything that shows the working conditions - emails, texts, medical records if stress affected your health, witness statements

I hear you. It's like they expect you to stay in abusive situations just to qualify for benefits you've already paid into.

This is exactly how I feel. The job was making me physically sick but I'm worried about being able to pay rent now.

They called twice the first day and sent one text. After that nothing. Should I respond now or would that hurt my case?

I'd be careful about responding now without advice. Maybe talk to Washington ESD first about how to handle it.

Good point. I haven't filed yet because I wasn't sure if I'd even qualify. Should I do it online or over the phone?

Online is usually faster but if your situation is complicated, phone might be better so you can explain the circumstances.

The online system asks pretty detailed questions about why you left. You can explain the situation there too.

How do I strengthen my case for an appeal if it comes to that?

Start documenting everything now - write down specific incidents you remember with dates, gather any communications, and see if former coworkers would be willing to provide statements.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money.

They don't publish pricing but it was worth it for me to avoid spending days trying to call. Check out their site at claimyr.com for more info.

What if there was no HR department? It was a small store with just the owner/manager who was the problem.

That actually helps your case because it shows you had no internal recourse to address the situation.

How did you prove they knew about the problems?

had emails where i reported stuff and their responses basically ignoring it. also had accident reports that showed the ongoing issues

You're right. I think I've been psyching myself out. I'll file tomorrow and see what happens.

Good luck! Remember to be completely honest about the circumstances and why you felt you had no choice but to leave.

That's good to know. I was worried about the timing of everything.

Yeah the retroactive pay can be significant. I got like 6 weeks of back pay when my appeal was approved.

That sounds amazing. I hate being on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

Same here. Lost count of how many times I got hung up on after waiting 2+ hours.

What happens if they contest it? Does it make it harder to get approved?

It means Washington ESD will review both sides and make a determination. Having documentation becomes even more important in contested cases.

How long did the whole process take from filing to final approval?

About 8 weeks total including the appeal. The waiting was the hardest part but I did eventually get all the back pay.

That makes sense. I need to sit down and write out all the specific incidents I can remember.

Yes! Dates, witnesses present, exactly what was said or done. The more detailed the better.

Thank you everyone for all the advice. I feel much more confident about filing now. Really appreciate the support.

Good for you! Keep us posted on how it goes. Your situation might help others in similar circumstances.

This is really helpful to know about constructive dismissal - I hadn't heard that term before. The physical symptoms part resonates with me too. I was having trouble sleeping and getting anxious just thinking about going to work. Did you have any medical documentation of the stress symptoms, or was your own testimony enough during the appeal process?

This gives me so much hope! I've been documenting everything I can remember from the past few weeks - the constant yelling, unreasonable schedule changes with no notice, and how I was getting panic attacks before my shifts. I didn't see a doctor about it though. Do you think personal documentation and testimony about the physical symptoms would be enough, or should I try to get some kind of medical evaluation now to support my case?

I had a similar experience with panic attacks before shifts! I didn't get medical documentation at the time either, but I did end up seeing my doctor a few weeks after I left because the stress symptoms continued. The doctor was able to note in my records that the symptoms were consistent with workplace stress, even though I sought treatment after leaving. If you're still experiencing anxiety or other symptoms, it might be worth getting evaluated now - it can still support your case even if it's after the fact. The key is being able to connect the symptoms to the work environment.