My ex boss asked me withdraw my unemployment claim

In September, my full-time, salaried position was impacted when my place of work was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The company kept me on for two additional months to help close out the building, but they eventually had to let me go as there were no other salaried positions available. Relocation wasn’t an option for me at the time. My departure was completely amicable—I genuinely enjoyed working for this company despite some challenges. In fact, the director mentioned they’d like to bring me back in the spring to help train new managers.

My last official day was November 30th, and I applied for unemployment shortly after. Yesterday, my former boss sent me a text with a photo of the claim notice. The following exchange occurred:

Boss: Please withdraw your claim. Boss: The business is closed so you are not eligible.

Me: Thanks for reaching out. I understand your concerns, but since the business closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene, I believe I’m eligible for unemployment benefits.

Please know this isn’t intended to cause any problems between us. Of course, you’re welcome to dispute the claim if you feel it’s necessary, and I’m confident the unemployment office will review everything and make a fair decision. In the meantime, I’m actively looking for a new job and hope to get back to work soon.

Wish you all the best!

Boss: Yes, we had damage but we did not stay open. Unemployment is for businesses who stay open. This application will be addressed, and unfortunately, I think the company will look at this in a negative way.

Me: I understand your concerns, but my understanding is that unemployment benefits can apply when someone loses their job through no fault of their own, including when a business closes permanently. When I filled out the application, there was a specific option to indicate that the closure was due to Hurricane Helene, which seemed to fit the situation.

I’m not trying to cause any issues or negativity—I’m just following the process, and I trust the unemployment office will review everything and make the right decision.

I really do appreciate the time I spent working with you and wish you the best.

Boss: Ok 👍

This interaction feels unprofessional, and I’m now unsure how to proceed. I’m considering sending an email to the North American Director (her supervisor) to address the situation. However, I don’t know if they may have been the one who asked her to send these messages.

Should I escalate this, or is there another approach I should take to handle the situation? Is there anything to worry about?