The exact details pertaining to unemployment details varies by state, but since it is a joint state-federal program, certain aspects of the service are the same around the country. This article covers some of the basics of applying for and receiving unemployment benefits.
What is Unemployment Insurance?
The unemployment insurance benefits program is intended to provide short-term financial aid to people who have lost their job through no fault of their own. The amount you receive is based on a percentage of what you earned over the last year of employment and is subject to limits and restrictions.
Are You Eligible?
There are some state-mandated eligibility restrictions, but there are two main requirements that are the same nationwide. First, you must be unemployed through no fault of your own. This means you have been laid off or fired due to lack of work. Within certain guidelines which vary by state, you may be eligible if you quit due to reasons other than just not liking your job.
How Do You Apply?
The first step will be contacting your state unemployment office to learn the particulars of that state’s process. You may have the options of applying in person at a state unemployment office, over the phone, by mail or online. Regardless, you will need a valid ID with current address, your former employment information including date and reason you left, and any other income you expect to receive while you are unemployed. You will also have to state that you are willing and actively looking for work while unemployed. You will want to start the process as soon as possible after you become unemployed as it will take several weeks to receive your first benefits check. There will be at least one interview either in person or over the phone before a decision is made. You should get a decision on your application within two weeks.
What If You Are Turned Down?
If you are denied benefits, you will be given a reason for the refusal. Most likely reasons are discrepancies between the reason you gave for termination and that of your former employer, and not being willing to find a job. You have a limited amount of time to file an appeal which varies by state. An appeal hearing will be set up in which you and your former employer, if required, must attend. At that time, all parties will need to present evidence substantiating their particular case. A judge will hear the evidence and return a decision. Again, depending on the state, both you and your former employer may have a second chance at an appeal.
What’s Next After You Begin Getting Benefits?
Once again, this varies by state, but in almost all cases, there are a few requirements for continued eligibility. You may need to attend additional interviews either in person or over the phone. You will need to file periodic claims, usually weekly or biweekly. These can usually be done over the phone or by mail. You will need to report any income. How much you earn through other means or with part-time work will affect how much you get in benefits, but not reporting it can result in permanent disruption of your benefits. Some states will require you to register with an employment office in order to receive job offers. You will need to apply for work when given the opportunity or be ready to answer why you were unable to do so. You may be required to take training in other fields if your chosen field has limited opportunities.
Unemployment benefits are partially funded by your former employers and partially by federal and state governments. If you are eligible, it is money you are entitled to, and you should apply for it if you suddenly find yourself out of work through no fault of your own. Contact your state unemployment office as soon as possible and start getting the benefits to which you are entitled.