quitting for health reason

by chuck
(TX)

I have a history of back problems going back years, which seem to have gotten worse since I started this job about eight months ago. It is well documented with my general physician, and I just started seeing a chiropractor last week, but so far, no real improvement (I realize it could take months). They may accommodate me with a different chair, but since I've had this pain for years, even sitting at home in my more ergonomically designed chair even as I type this, I am still in pain so I don't think a different chair will make a difference. If I quit, would I be able to collect unemployment benefits while I look for another line of work, something where I'm not sitting all day?


Hi Chuck,

I don't think I would feel comfortable quitting without first seeking accommodations or acquiring medical documentation that says you need to find work that doesn't require sitting all day .. especially in Texas. (tough state)

I have seen medical documentation which requires that a person be allowed to walk or stand a certain number of minutes each hour.

Employer's often really dislike medical restrictions and won't comply quite frequently. When this is the case they have generally provided you with the "good cause" for quitting.

They can't really insist on "unpaid FMLA" because the limitation do not make you not able and available for work and since you've only worked there 8 months you wouldn't qualify anyway.

But I still don't think it's a bad idea for you to check out the Texas appeal policy and precedent manual. The link is on the bottom right of the page .. under resources.