Tips and info

Voluntary quits

August 2006

It is often believed that all quits disqualify claimants from unemployment benefits. While most quits, especially for non-compelling personal reasons, are disqualifying there are significant exceptions. For example, all States may allow benefits for a quit with "good cause" attributable to employment. Other States have a broader "good cause" to include quits for certain compelling personal reasons leaving the claimant with no reasonable alternative. Careful reporting and documentation of voluntary quits is vital to effective control of unwarranted claims.

Quit – without good cause:

  • Attend school
  • Get married
  • Look for other work, e.g., career change
  • Stay home with children
  • Leaving in anticipation of discharge
  • Job abandonment, no call no show for three or more days

Quit – With Good Cause:

  • Substantial or adverse change in terms of hire, (e.g., reduction in hours, pay, change in duties or worksite.)
  • Evidence of harassment or discrimination.
  • Working conditions detrimental to health or safety.

Quit With Good Cause – Personal Reasons:

  • Quit for medical reasons, (e.g., doctor's advise to move to a warmer climate.)
  • Care for a dependent parent or child.
  • Quit to follow a spouse who transferred elsewhere.

Since laws, rules and exceptions vary greatly, you should take care to obtain, if possible, a letter of resignation and/or conduct an exit interview documenting reasons for a quit. If an employee is leaving because of an alleged problem on the job, document background and attempts if any to find a solution,( e.g., offer of a transfer or leave of absence).

NOTE: A quit in lieu of discharge is not a voluntary quit since continuing work was not available. Consult your UC eXpress Claims Team if you have questions or need advise.