If I quit can I file for unemployment - Washington ESD eligibility question

What kind of documentation would I need? I haven't been keeping records but there have been witnesses to some of the incidents.

Start documenting everything now - dates, times, witnesses, what was said. Email yourself summaries after incidents happen. Also check if your company has an HR department you should report to first.

How long did the appeal take? I'm worried about going months without any income.

About 8 weeks total from when I filed the appeal to when I got the hearing scheduled. Then another 2 weeks for the decision after that.

What about constructive dismissal? If they're making conditions so bad you have to quit, isn't that basically the same as being fired?

Yes, that's called constructive discharge in unemployment law. But it's really hard to prove. You need to show that the employer's actions were so unreasonable that quitting was your only option.

This sounds complicated. Is there a way to get help navigating this process if I do decide to quit and file?

Did they help you with the quitting situation specifically? I'm worried about messing up the application.

They got me connected to an actual Washington ESD agent who could review my case details and explain exactly what documentation I needed for my good cause argument.

That's not really helpful advice for someone trying to figure out their options. The system has specific rules for good reasons.

yeah well those 'good reasons' dont help when youre broke because your boss is a nightmare but the system says tough luck

I hadn't thought about filing a complaint first. Would that protect me somehow?

It creates an official record that you tried to address the problems through proper channels. Shows you didn't just quit impulsively.

I could try asking for a transfer but honestly I don't think they'd approve it. The whole management structure seems toxic.

At least if you ask and they refuse you'll have documentation of trying to resolve the situation first.

Good point. I'll need to have all my employment information ready right?

Yes - last 18 months of work history, SSN, bank info for direct deposit. And be prepared to explain in detail why you quit.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - the phone system is impossible to navigate on your own. Worth checking out if you're still struggling to get through.

Thanks, I'll look into that. I've been calling for weeks with no luck.

Definitely won't lie about it. I just want to make sure I present my case in the best way possible.

Good. Focus on the specific actions your employer took that made continuing work impossible, not just general complaints about the job.

I haven't researched that yet. Do you know where I would look for Washington state worker protections?

Check the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website. They have information about workplace rights and complaint processes.

How many job applications do I need to do per week?

It's 3 job search activities per week in Washington. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records.

That's understandable. The key is really documenting everything and understanding your options before making any decisions.

Yeah I need to start keeping better records of what's happening at work just in case.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already worried about money if I quit my job.

It's worth checking their website for current info. For me it was worth it to actually get my case resolved instead of being stuck in limbo.

That's a good idea. Even if I don't sue, they might have insights about how to best document everything.

Exactly. They understand what kind of evidence actually matters for these cases.

Thanks for saying that. It's been really affecting my mental health and I keep second-guessing whether I'm overreacting.

Trust your instincts. You know your situation better than anyone else.

Will do. Thanks everyone for all the advice. I have a lot to think about and research before making my decision.

Good luck whatever you decide. Just make sure you're fully informed about the consequences either way.

It's definitely not common knowledge. The exceptions exist but they're pretty specific and you have to be able to prove your case.

good to know for future reference hopefully i never need it

How long did it take from start to finish to get your benefits?

About 12 weeks total including the appeal process. But I did get back pay for the whole period once I won.

Not in a union unfortunately. Wish I was though, might have prevented some of these issues.

Even without a union, some workplaces have employee assistance programs that might help with workplace conflicts.