ESD denied my benefits because I quit due to workplace harassment - need appeal advice

You definitely need to appeal! I went through something similar last year. Make sure you include ALL of your evidence - emails, texts, HR complaints, medical documentation - everything. The appeal form is on the ESD website under 'Appeals' but it's basic. The key is to write a detailed statement explaining why you had 'good cause' to quit under WA law. In your case, that would be a hostile work environment that affected your health. Also very important - continue filing your weekly claims while your appeal is pending! Many people forget this part.

I dont think u need a lawyer but it helps. my freind won his apeall without 1. make sure u have all ur proof ready and dont miss the deadline!! goodluck

You need to focus on proving that 1) you exhausted all reasonable alternatives before quitting, and 2) the conditions were so intolerable that a reasonable person would have quit. Washington state law specifically recognizes harassment as potential good cause for quitting, but the burden of proof is on you. Be sure to add details about: - Each HR complaint you filed and their responses - Any attempts to transfer departments or resolve the issue - Specific incidents with dates and witnesses if possible - Medical documentation connecting your anxiety to the workplace conditions The appeal hearing will likely be by phone with an Administrative Law Judge from the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). Your former employer will be invited to participate. Keep your testimony fact-based and chronological. Avoid emotional language even though this is understandably upsetting.

THE SYSTEM IS RIGGED!!! ESD automatically sides with employers because they pay into the unemployment system. I went through EXACTLY what you're describing - had a manager who was verbally abusive, presented MOUNTAINS of evidence, and STILL lost my appeal. The judge basically said I should have "tried harder" to resolve the situation before quitting. The whole process is a joke and they just want to deny benefits to save money.

I had the same problem trying to get thru to ESD to ask questions about my appeal last month. Kept calling that 800 number for DAYS and either got disconnected or was on hold forever. Finally used this service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual ESD agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. Website is claimyr.com if you want to check it out. Way better than waiting on hold for hours just to ask questions about your appeal process.

Hey there! Sorry you're dealing with this stressful situation. When I had to appeal my ESD denial last year (different circumstances though), I found that organizing all my evidence chronologically really helped. I created a simple timeline document with dates of incidents, reports to HR, medical appointments, etc., with references to the specific evidence for each entry. The judge seemed to really appreciate having everything laid out clearly. Also, try to stay calm during the hearing. I know it's emotional, but the more matter-of-fact you can be, the better your case will come across. Good luck!

I actually came here looking for information about standby status but saw your post and wanted to chime in. My daughter went through something very similar with a toxic boss at her accounting firm. Her anxiety got so bad she had to quit. For her appeal, she had her therapist write a detailed letter explaining how the workplace conditions directly impacted her mental health. That seemed to make a big difference - she won her appeal. Maybe ask your doctor for something similar?

Thank you all for the helpful advice! I've started putting together my appeal packet with: 1. Timeline of harassment incidents with manager 2. Copies of both HR complaints 3. Email showing my denied transfer request 4. Doctor's notes and anxiety diagnosis 5. Text messages from coworkers who witnessed some incidents I'm going to ask my doctor for a more detailed letter specifically connecting my anxiety to the workplace harassment. And I'll definitely keep filing my weekly claims while this is all happening. Still nervous about the hearing, but feeling much more prepared now. Will update once I have a decision!