I figured some of you like-minded folks would have some clever ideas. My job let me work remote for the better part of the year, but we got a new boss with a stick up his ass. For some backstory, about a year ago, I basically said “I'm working remote or I quit,” knowing they wouldn't be able to afford to let me go.
This is unfortunately no longer the case. I'm pretty certain that if I refuse to go back into the office, I get fired. I'm ok with it, I was thinking about leaving anyway. Whatever. BUT I definitely want those unemployment benefits! Of course, it's a bit of a gray area here. I can't just say “I refuse, but I'm not quitting, so you have to fire me.”
On the other hand, I do legitimately have mental health problems, such as anxiety and it's actually completely true that it's been better for my mental health to be away from the office. A doctor can confirm this, and it legitimately wouldn't be fraudulent to say this.
Do you guys think I could work this angle? Is it a legitimate way to get that unemployment? I'm not trying to do anything illegal, of course, but “unethical” isn't out of the question, as long as it only hurts the company (nothing that hurts my fellow employees or the taxpayers, please).
I have residence in California and am employed there, if that helps.