Unemployment After Quitting in Illinois
When quitting a job in Illinois still qualifies for unemployment, and what counts as good cause.
Short answer: You are disqualified if you quit without good cause attributable to your employer, unless you quit because of health, sexual harassment, domestic violence, unsuitable work, accepting another job, not exercising bumping privileges, or to go with a military spouse or a spouse relocating… Illinois Department of Employment Security, Unemployment Insurance Benefits Handbook, Disqualifications
| If you quit | You are disqualified if you quit without good cause attributable to your employer, unless you quit because of health, sexual harassment, domestic violence, unsuitable work, accepting another job, not exercising bumping privileges, or to go with a military spouse or a spouse relocating for work. A disqualification lasts until you earn at least your weekly benefit amount in each of four calendar weeks in a new job and then lose that job through no fault of your own. |
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| Appealing a denial | You must file your appeal within 30 days after the denial letter was mailed to you. An Administrative Law Judge (referee) holds a hearing. If the referee rules against you, you can appeal to the Board of Review within 30 days, and then to Circuit Court. Continue to certify every two weeks while your appeal is pending if you remain unemployed. |
Where to get help in Illinois
More Illinois unemployment benefits
- Logging In to Your Illinois Unemployment Claim
- Unemployment for Self-Employed and Gig Workers in Illinois
- Unemployment After Being Fired in Illinois
- How Much Unemployment Pays in Illinois
- How to File for Unemployment in Illinois
- All Illinois unemployment benefits rules
FAQ
Can you get unemployment if you quit in Illinois?
You are disqualified if you quit without good cause attributable to your employer, unless you quit because of health, sexual harassment, domestic violence, unsuitable work, accepting another job, not exercising bumping privileges, or to go with a military spouse or a spouse relocating for work. A disqualification lasts until you earn at least your weekly benefit amount in each of four calendar weeks in a new job and then lose that job through no fault of your own.
How do I appeal an unemployment denial in Illinois?
You must file your appeal within 30 days after the denial letter was mailed to you. An Administrative Law Judge (referee) holds a hearing. If the referee rules against you, you can appeal to the Board of Review within 30 days, and then to Circuit Court. Continue to certify every two weeks while your appeal is pending if you remain unemployed.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.