How to Receive Unemployment Benefits If You Quit
- 1). Talk with your boss first if you have not quit your job already. Many states that allow voluntary unemployed residents to receive unemployment compensation require applicants to make reasonable efforts to avoid resignation. You must allow your employer a chance to solve work-related problems that may lead to your resignation and explore alternatives to quitting. Document dates, times and a summary of each exchange with your boss.
- 2). Gather documents that support just cause for quitting. Examples of qualifying reason include environmental dangers that threaten your health, employer refusal to meet the hiring agreement, employer violation of legal and moral standards and harassment. Keep in mind that just cause varies from state to state.
After you have gathered the necessary documents, hand in your resignation letter. Refrain from going into detail about your reasons for quitting to prevent your employer from gaining advantage ahead of filing your unemployment claim. - 3). File your unemployment claim at your local unemployment office as normal, but answer yes when questioned if you quit your job and provide copies of the supporting just cause documents.
- 4). Wait up to month for a decision. Receiving a benefits decision for voluntary unemployment will take longer because there will be an investigation. If your employer challenges your claim, a hearing will be scheduled. Bring all supporting documents to the hearing and answer questions truthfully. If the mediator determines you have just cause to quit, she will provide further details, such as when you should expect your first unemployment check.
