Lost your job? Confused? Need to apply for unemployment benefits now? Here are the basics you need to know:
When to Apply
File for unemployment as soon as possible after you have lost your job. The sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll get paid.
Where to Apply
Contact your state employment insurance office, which is listed in your phone book under State Government, to begin applying for unemployment benefits. They will tell you how and where to apply for unemployment as well as specific eligibility requirements. In some states, filing for unemployment can be done by phone or over the Internet.
How do I know if I’m eligible to file for unemployment?
You must meet requirements based on the wages you earned and the time you worked during a one-year period of time. (How that period is calculated may differ from state to state.) Also, you must have lost your job through no fault of your own. Contact your state employment insurance office to determine your eligibility.
What disqualifies me from filing for unemployment?
Regulations on eligibility for applying for unemployment benefits vary from state to state, but you may be disqualified if you
- Were fired for misconduct
- Resigned because of illness (check on disability benefits)
- Quit without having a good reason
- Left to get married
- Are self-employed
- Were involved in a labor dispute
- Are attending school
What will my unemployment benefits be?
State benefits vary, but in general your unemployment benefits will be half your earnings up to a maximum amount, and you will be paid for a maximum of 26 weeks. You must report your unemployment benefits on your tax return because they are subject to Federal taxes.
How long will I have to wait to get my first check?
It typically takes about 2 to 3 weeks after you file for unemployment for you to receive your first check.
Can I still apply for unemployment if I’ve found a part-time job?
Yes, but your unemployment benefits may be reduced based on how much you earn at your part-time job.
Are there any other factors that might affect the amount of my unemployment benefits?
Yes. The amount of your benefits will be reduced if you are still receiving severance pay from your former employer, you collect a pension (including Social Security), or you owe child support.
For additional information about unemployment benefits, check out these helpful sites:
www.thebeehive.org – Provides information on applying for unemployment as well as resources on finding a job, making more money, getting training and education, and many other helpful topics
www.careeronestop.org – Includes links to state unemployment offices (where you can file for unemployment), a job bank, and many other services for job seekers
www.dol.gov – Offers information on unemployment insurance, state unemployment, unemployment benefits for federal employees and former members of the Armed Forces, unemployment benefits for those who have lost their jobs because of a major disaster, and more. This is the U.S. Department of Labor Web site and includes a toll-free number for information on filing for unemployment and finding employment.
If you are unemployed, you need to know your rights. We hope the above article and resources enable you to collect what you are due while you look for a new job.
