Quit to Follow Spouse or Chase a New Job? Colorado Unemployment Benefits Explained

Quit to Follow Spouse or Chase a New Job? Colorado Unemployment Benefits Explained

Ever wondered why one employee's resignation gets full unemployment benefits while another's gets denied—even if both quit voluntarily? In Colorado, it boils down to why they left, especially for quits to follow a spouse's job move versus jumping to new employment. Greschler Unemployment Law Representation breaks it down simply for employers and former employees navigating Colorado unemployment claims.

Quit to Follow Spouse: Full Benefits Under CRS 8-73-108(4)(u)

Picture this: Your spouse lands a job across the state (or country), and commuting back to your old gig just isn't realistic. Colorado Revised Statutes § 8-73-108(4)(u) steps in here, awarding full unemployment benefits—no questions on your "fault."

You qualify if the spouse's job change forces a new home, commuting proves impractical, and you're ready to work locally after moving. Best part for employers? These awards are non-chargeable, so your UI tax rates stay untouched—benefits pull from the state's fund instead.

Quit for New Employment: Tricky Waters Under 8-73-108(5)(e)(V)

Now flip it: You quit to snag a "better" job or just test the market. Generally, CRS § 8-73-108(5)(e)(V) kicks in, disqualifying benefits since it's seen as your personal choice.

There's a narrow escape for construction workers under § 8-73-108(4)(f)—quit near your project's end for a longer-term gig starting soon? Full award possible. Otherwise, expect pushback, and yes, it could charge your employer's account.

Side-by-Side: Spouse Quit vs. Job Hunt Quit

Issue	Quit to Accompany Spouse – 8-73-108(4)(u)	Quit for Other Employment – 8-73-108(4)(f) & 8-73-108(5)(e)(V)
Basic Trigger	Spouse/partner's job relocation forces move; commute impractical [1]	Personal choice to seek/accept new work (construction exception narrow) [1][2]
Benefits	Full award, non-chargeable to employer [1][3]	Often reduced/denied; potentially chargeable [2][4]
Proof Needed	Job notice, move details, availability [5]	Firm new job offer meeting strict criteria [1]
Employer Hit	None—protects your rates [3]	Possible UI premium spike [2]

Why Greschler Law is Your Colorado Unemployment Lawyer

Facing a tricky separation? Don't risk it alone. Greschler Unemployment Law Representation specializes in Colorado unemployment hearings, from spouse relocations to job-switch disputes and everything else.  Jonathan Greschler is a retired unemployment hearing officer.  You deserve the most experienced Colorado unemployment attorney. We hype the facts, nail the statutes, and make the strongest case possible.