Q: Can I quit my job due to lack of support for medical needs and receive unemployment benefits in Missouri?

A: You can certainly quit your job, but it is rather difficult to get benefits if you resign. You must prove that you “quit for good cause attributable to the work or employer.” This is an objective standard, meaning that you must be treated so poorly that anyone would have quit under the circumstances. Furthermore, Missouri courts have held that you must prove you acted in “good faith” which means you took reasonable steps to preserve your job. The courts require you to raise your issues with management and/or Human Resources before quitting. You must also give the employer time to investigate your allegations and (if supported) make attempts to resolve the issue. Failure to do any of the above will result in you being denied benefits.

A: Yes, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits in Missouri if you quit your job for what the state considers “good cause attributable to the work or the employer.” Medical needs—especially those related to serious conditions like cancer—can qualify as good cause if your employer fails to provide reasonable accommodation. Since your previous manager allowed flexibility and your new manager is showing unequal and unfair treatment, this lack of support may justify a voluntary quit with cause.

Before quitting, try to document everything. Keep written records of your medical appointments, the procedure notifications you gave, any written reprimands you received, and examples of other employees being treated more leniently. If possible, submit a written request for accommodation or a formal complaint to HR. Taking these steps shows that you made a good-faith effort to resolve the issue before quitting, which strengthens your unemployment claim.

If you resign and apply for unemployment, explain in detail how your employer's failure to accommodate your medical needs made continued employment unreasonable. The Missouri Division of Employment Security will consider your health, your attempts to preserve your job, and the employer’s actions. You’ve worked hard and are managing a major health challenge—your well-being and dignity come first. Stand firm and prepare carefully to protect both your rights and your future.