Q: If I leave my job due to harassment, intimidation, bullying, because nothing was done, can I still get unemployment?
I've been working at my current position for over a year now. I am constantly bullied, harassed, and intimidated by coworker and a higherup. I have reported this several times, but nothing has been done. When I have had meetings to explain why I feel I am being treated poorly, it is blamed on either my sensitivity, my young age, or my lack of experience. I didn't even know we had HR at my company until last week. The distress this is causing me is unbearable and I am afraid to come into work at this point. I feel I need to leave, but I need to support myself. Will I still be eligible for unemployment if I leave this way?
A: Potentially. Eligibility after quitting is never a sure thing, and ultimately it will be up to an administrative law judge. You will have to prove you had no choice but to quit.
A: If you have not done so already, report your experiences to the HR department, and document their response, if any. You have the right to work in an environment that is free from harassment and bullying. Before you leave this job, meet with an employment lawyer to discuss your case and to see if there is any evidence you can gather to support a possible future lawsuit.
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