Washington ESD unemployment after resignation - can I file if I resign from my job?

What kind of documentation would I need? I don't have anything in writing about the issues with my supervisor.

Emails, text messages, witness statements from coworkers, medical records if it's affecting your health, HR complaints you've filed - anything that shows you tried to resolve the situation first.

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

Mine took about 5 weeks total. If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD during that time, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to actual agents. They have a demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ and their site is claimyr.com. Really helped when I needed to check on my adjudication status.

What about if your boss is just a jerk but not technically harassing you? Like constantly criticizing everything you do but nothing illegal?

That's harder to prove as good cause unless it rises to the level of creating a hostile work environment. You'd need to show it was so severe that any reasonable person would have quit.

Did you win your appeal eventually?

no because i couldn't prove good cause. learned my lesson the hard way

My company doesn't really have HR, it's pretty small. Would talking to the owner count?

Yes, document any conversations you have with the owner about these issues. Send follow-up emails summarizing what was discussed so you have written records.

I hear you. I was in the same boat last month but finally had to get help contacting Washington ESD when my claim was stuck. Used Claimyr to actually reach an agent who explained my options. Definitely worth checking out claimyr.com if you end up needing to get through to someone.

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind. How long did it take them to help you get through?

Where can I find the official handbook? I want to read the exact requirements.

It's on the Washington ESD website under benefit eligibility. Look for the section on voluntary quit disqualifications and exceptions.

That's terrible but unfortunately not surprising. The adjudication process seems to default to denial even with clear good cause.

Did your friend have to get a lawyer involved?

That seems risky though. What if they fire me for cause and then I can't get benefits anyway?

True, it's a gamble. You'd need to be strategic about it and make sure any refusal is based on legitimate safety or ethical concerns.

Should I email myself these details so there's a timestamp?

Great idea! Emailing yourself creates a digital timestamp that's hard to dispute. Also save any work-related texts or emails that show the problematic behavior.

This is key. I got approved after my doctor wrote a letter explaining how workplace stress was causing panic attacks and insomnia.

I haven't seen anyone yet but maybe I should. The stress is definitely getting to me.

Good point. I was thinking I should wait until I had all my documentation together first.

No, file first then submit additional documentation as you gather it. You can always provide more evidence during the adjudication process.

Agreed. I rambled during mine and probably hurt my case. Keep it concise and focus on how you met the good cause criteria.

If you can't reach Washington ESD for the interview or have questions about the process, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. They helped me get through when I kept getting hung up on during the busy period.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

It varies but typically 3 job search activities per week. Check the Washington ESD website for current requirements as they can change.

I hadn't thought about that. Are there income requirements for those programs?

Most have income limits but if you're unemployed you'll likely qualify. Contact your local WorkSource office for information about available programs.