How to quit my job and still unemployment benefits in Washington

Having just gone through the process and succeeded, it is very possible to voluntarily quit your job and still receive Unemployment Benefits in the state of Washington. Let me help you with the facts and relevant information you need to prove your case.

Instructions

1. First of all, don't go out and quit your job tomorrow because this guy online said you can get unemployment. Yes, it is very possible to voluntarily quit and get unemployment, but it has to be done and there has to be valid reasoning.

   In my instance I had dated and subsequently broke up with a woman I worked with (mistake #1) and after the breakup life at work became intolerable. The accusations, behind the back talk and just plain negative work environment made it impossible to enjoy work and do a good job. Any one of these circumstances can have a very negative effect on your emotional state and begin to effect your life outside of the work place. If any of this is happening to you, you could very well have possible recourse.

2. If you have a union, definitely contact them first and let them know your situation before you quit your job. I had a union and they helped me tremendously in working out a deal to resign. Do not do this all on your own without using all available resources first. If you are able to file a grievance it only adds to your case.

   You also need to tell your supervisor at least one time about the conditions at work that are affecting you and how they are having a negative impact on you and your life. As hard as it is, do not get sucked up into the drama and talking bad about the other person(s) or begin to bad mouth your employer. Be the adult and it'll pay off in the end.

3. When you've finally had enough and want to separate, get ahold of your union representative(if you are in a union) or go solo if that is not possible to your Human Resources. Always go with your union rep to Human Resources if one is available. If that is not possible, have your thoughts and questions written down before you go so you don't get nervous and forget what you really need to say.

   Your goal with this visit to Human Resources is to explain your circumstances, what it's doing to your work life and personal life and that you need to step away. It's very important to emphasize that the situation can't be fixed and that you need to leave, but you want to make a deal that you will Voluntarily Resign but you still want to be able to file for and get unemployment benefits.

4. Any sort of agreement you may or may not get from Human Resources, make sure it is in writing and signed by both parties. If not it's just your word against theirs. Remember that you whole goal is to get as much evidence to help you win your unemployment claim.

   It is important to convey to your employer that it is in the best interest of all parties involved that you move on and Voluntarily Resign, but with that said you would ask that they allow you to file for unemployment and not have them contest it. In my situation, HR agreed to not appeal my unemployment claim, but told me that they would have to tell the state unemployment office that I Voluntarily Resigned. That is totally fine though because I had this all in writing. Even if you can't get that agreement or one close to it, all hope is not lost if you decide to Voluntarily Resign.

5. No matter the circumstances, as soon as you resign, go to www.esd.wa.gov and file your unemployment claim. It is very simple, but the sooner the better. As of this writing it is taking 6-8 weeks for unemployment claims to be processed. For myself it took 7 weeks.

   Within a week of filing your claim online you will be sent paperwork form the state to explain your rights and tell you how to file your weekly claim. It's very important that you return any paperwork the state sends for you to complete asap, and remember to file your weekly claim. Even though you aren't getting money, you will get back paid when your claim if finally approved.

6. Before the final decision ever has a chance of being decided, write a letter to the state detailing everything that took place at work which led to your resigning. Anything and everything should go into this letter. Emotional distress, quality of life and how the negativity was no condusive to a good work environment for yourself and others. The more information the better. Even if it may seem embarrassing to you pride or ego, put it down.

   If at all possible or if relevant, get any statements which might help from your doctor(s) stating that it was in the best interest of your health and mental state to quit the negative work environment. Any counseling or therapy you might have gotten or are getting should also be annotated in the letter and statements included if at all possible.

7. Remember to never give up and do not listen to the naysayers. I was told that I didn't stand a chance of receiving unemployment payments since I Voluntarily Quit, but I did my research before and after quitting and had all my ducks in a row. I want my knowledge to help you have success just as I did. Having to go to work when you despise it because of drama and negativity is not worth it.

Tips & Warnings

• If at any time you have questions about your unemployment claim or how to fill out paperwork, don't be afraid to contact the telecenter or visit your local WorkSource office. They are there to help and do a wonderful job.