Unemployment After Quitting in Washington
When quitting a job in Washington still qualifies for unemployment, and what counts as good cause.
Short answer: If you quit for good cause, you may be eligible, but you must also show you tried to keep your job unless that would have been useless. Washington ESD, You quit your job
| If you quit | If you quit for good cause, you may be eligible, but you must also show you tried to keep your job unless that would have been useless. Recognized reasons include: moving with a spouse or domestic partner whose job is outside your area; domestic violence or stalking; losing access to care for a child or vulnerable adult; your own illness or disability, or a family member's illness, disability or death; your employer cutting your usual pay or hours by 25% or more; a job move that lengthens your commute; quitting to take another job; entering approved apprenticeship or Trade Adjustment Assistance training; and unfixed safety problems or illegal activity you reported. |
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| Appealing a denial | You must submit an appeal within 30 days from the date the determination letter was mailed. File online in eServices: open the claim, go to "Decision Status" and choose "File an appeal." If you file late, you will have to explain why. Keep filing weekly claims while your appeal is pending. |
Where to get help in Washington
More Washington unemployment benefits
- Logging In to Your Washington Unemployment Claim
- Unemployment for Self-Employed and Gig Workers in Washington
- Unemployment After Being Fired in Washington
- How Much Unemployment Pays in Washington
- How to File for Unemployment in Washington
- All Washington unemployment benefits rules
FAQ
Can you get unemployment if you quit in Washington?
If you quit for good cause, you may be eligible, but you must also show you tried to keep your job unless that would have been useless. Recognized reasons include: moving with a spouse or domestic partner whose job is outside your area; domestic violence or stalking; losing access to care for a child or vulnerable adult; your own illness or disability, or a family member's illness, disability or death; your employer cutting your usual pay or hours by 25% or more; a job move that lengthens your commute; quitting to take another job; entering approved apprenticeship or Trade Adjustment Assistance training; and unfixed safety problems or illegal activity you reported.
How do I appeal an unemployment denial in Washington?
You must submit an appeal within 30 days from the date the determination letter was mailed. File online in eServices: open the claim, go to "Decision Status" and choose "File an appeal." If you file late, you will have to explain why. Keep filing weekly claims while your appeal is pending.
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.