Unemployment After Quitting in Virginia
When quitting a job in Virginia still qualifies for unemployment, and what counts as good cause.
Short answer: If you quit without good cause, you are disqualified until you work for an employer for 30 days or 240 hours and then become separated again. Va. Code § 60.2-618(1); VEC Claimant Handbook (updated 12/11/23)
| If you quit | If you quit without good cause, you are disqualified until you work for an employer for 30 days or 240 hours and then become separated again. Good cause related to the job, such as unsafe working conditions, can qualify, as can leaving because you or your child were a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault. Quitting to become self-employed or to follow a spouse to a new place is not good cause, except when following a military spouse on a permanent change of station. |
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| Appealing a denial | You must appeal within 30 days from the date the determination letter was mailed, explaining in writing why you disagree. File through the Customer Self Service portal, or by mail or fax ((804) 786-8492). A hearing officer holds a hearing, and you can appeal that decision further. |
Where to get help in Virginia
More Virginia unemployment benefits
- Logging In to Your Virginia Unemployment Claim
- Unemployment for Self-Employed and Gig Workers in Virginia
- Unemployment After Being Fired in Virginia
- How Much Unemployment Pays in Virginia
- How to File for Unemployment in Virginia
- All Virginia unemployment benefits rules
FAQ
Can you get unemployment if you quit in Virginia?
If you quit without good cause, you are disqualified until you work for an employer for 30 days or 240 hours and then become separated again. Good cause related to the job, such as unsafe working conditions, can qualify, as can leaving because you or your child were a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault. Quitting to become self-employed or to follow a spouse to a new place is not good cause, except when following a military spouse on a permanent change of station.
How do I appeal an unemployment denial in Virginia?
You must appeal within 30 days from the date the determination letter was mailed, explaining in writing why you disagree. File through the Customer Self Service portal, or by mail or fax ((804) 786-8492). A hearing officer holds a hearing, and you can appeal that decision further.
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.