Fired for job seeking (outside office)?

Question

A month ago, my boss cut everybody's hourly rate, then, he cut our hours. He found out I had applied for a job - called me in & asked if I had applied for a job someplace and I said that I had - he said my final check would be mailed out that afternoon and asked for my office keys! Can I get unemployment?

Answer 1

Your former boss sounds like a real jerk.

I'm in human resources, and you probably worked for an at-will employer, which means that you or your employer can end the job at any time with or without notice and with or without cause.

So, you did not violate any employment laws by seeking other work, unless a) you falsified your reasons for calling in to work, or b) the company has an iron-clad non-compete agreement firmly in place which you signed (check your employee handbook just in case).

So, I would go to the unemployment office and file for unemployment. It will be up to the unemployment office to determine whether you are eligible or not - no one here can tell you for sure.

Even if he denies the claim, which I'm sure he will, go anyway and make sure you have documentation prepared in case you have to appeal the decision.

Answer 2

You should be able to get unemployment, assuming you had been working long enough to qualify. Each state has different rules on that.

Answer 3

Go and apply for your unemployment benefits. My guess is that your employer will appeal having to pay, but I believe that your claim will be upheld.

Good luck.

Answer 4

I think it depends on how long you have been working with the company.