If I move to another state with my better half, can I still collect unemployment?
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If I move to another state with my better half, can I still collect unemployment?
My girlfriend decided to relocate to another state. I quit my job to follow her. My employers are paying me unemployment but I had to come back at the request of the unemployment office. Now I’m being told they have to review my benefits and they may be cut off since I moved. Can they do that?
Asked on August 6, 2012 under Employment Labor Law, New York
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Yes, you are actually not eligible for unemployment if you voluntarily quit or resign your job, even if you resign for what are very good reasons--like to follow your girlfriend. There are a few states, I believe, that allow you to quit and receive unemployment to follow someone to whom you were married at the time, but none give you the right to quit and get unemployment for following an unmarried significant other. It appears that not only may your benefits be cut off, but you could be made to repay benefits.
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