When we (or a member of our family) are victims of domestic violence or other crimes, we need to take time off – to meet with a lawyer, go to court, get a restraining order, find a safe place to live, enroll kids in a new school, or go to a doctor or counselor. Abusers and stalkers will also do things that can stop us from going to work or make it hard to work.

Some states have laws which let workers take time off from work:

  • when they are victims of domestic violence or other crime,
  • when they need time off for their own or a family members’ medical problem
  • when they need to go to their child’s school

If you lose your job because of domestic violence, you may still be able to collect unemployment benefits. Each state’s rules are different. Ask your state office what the rules are for your situation:

  • What documentation does your state ask for to show the domestic violence?
  • To collect unemployment, a worker has to be ready and available to work – does your state make exceptions for workers who still need time off to address issues around domestic violence?
  • Does your state charge the boss’ account when a domestic violence survivor collects unemployment benefits? (If your old boss knows he won’t be charged, he may not fight against your collecting benefits.)