You may still be eligible for unemployment benefits if you have a genuine reason for quitting your job. The reason has to be serious enough that anyone else in your position would have quit as well. You should attempt to apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible, even if your former boss has told you that you are not entitled to them or you have been working off the books.

Proving Your Unemployment Case

It is your responsibility to prove you had a good reason to quit your employment. If you have been fired, it is your boss’ responsibility to provide evidence why you should not collect. Whether it was a problem at work, at home or a health problem, you will need to prove that quitting was your only reasonable option. You will also need to mention whether you have discussed the issue with your boss so they had the option to fix it or whether telling your boss would have made no difference.

Reasons for Refusal of Unemployment Benefits

There is a good chance you will not qualify for unemployment benefits if you left your job because you lost or changed your childcare arrangements. Poor relations with your boss and coworkers are also not considered a serious enough reason to walk away from your employment. If you have left your job because of low pay this may be taken into consideration, especially if you have struggled to support your family. However, asking for a raise and leaving when refused will not qualify you for benefits.

Fact-Finding Hearing

Once you have applied for unemployment benefits you will need to wait until you are sent a date and time for a fact-finding hearing. This is more of a formal interview than an official hearing and it is your chance to explain your reasons for leaving your job. You will also be able to provide supporting evidence, such as doctor’s notes and medical history. If you were fired, your former boss will attend to offer their side of the story.

Right to Appeal

If you are refused benefits, you have 21 days from the decision date to file a written appeal. You can complete a specific appeal form or write a letter of appeal yourself. This will lead to a second hearing chaired by a referee. It is their job to look over all the evidence, and decide whether to uphold or overrule the decision.