Has anyone been able to get unemployment benefits when voluntarily quitting? Is this an option. Asked ChatGPT but it answers differently every time I ask it.
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It varies by state. Generally, if you accept a separation package, you’re not eligible for unemployment benefits but the burden of proof falls on the employer. I’m not sure VZ would challenge it. From my experience, the unemployment office contacts the employer to verify or dispute the claim and then waits for a response. After a certain amount of time, UI makes a decision. In my past experience it takes about 1 month after filling to get the notice that you are eligible.
With VZ it took about four months to receive confirmation that I was eligible for unemployment, even though I didn’t take the voluntary package. I was part of a RIF. That’s a long time compared to my past experiences; I’ve been on unemployment at least six times in my life. The one time a company disputed my claim, I received notice within a month and had to prove that I was let go through no fault of my own. That company was a small shop, and they fought me weekly, which meant I had to submit paperwork every week to keep receiving benefits. The only time I wasn’t asked for justification was when the HR lady forgot to submit the dispute, she was a real Karen.
I would suggest filling and being honest. If you get UI then save it and wait for the UI verdict that you are eliglble. If they find you are not eligble you will be asked to pay it back. Which shouldn't be an issue if you saved it. That is what I would do in your situation.
If you were RIF'ed, what about the section of the agreement that says you release all claims against VZ? Doesn't that mean you give up your right to UI?
You can only get unemployment benefits if you are constructively fired. For example you were hired remote and are told you are required back in the office 200 miles away. Try to hang in there to get a severance. I'm pretty sure there are layoffs coming.
The magic is get Rif’d…20+ weeks await
Voluntary termination = NO unemployment with rare exceptions on a state by state basis