Getting Unemployment Insurance Benefits

By understanding precisely what unemployment insurance is and how to apply for it, you can minimize this as a concern and get the money you need.

Unemployment insurance is a type of insurance protection that’s traditionally provided to those who’ve unexpectedly lost their jobs and are unable to find new work immediately. Each state administers its own unemployment insurance program and funds most of the program through tax dollars. Unemployed individuals can receive benefits, typically for up to 26 weeks, while they look for work. In addition, an Extended Benefits program has been established that provides additional benefits, typically up to 20 weeks, in states where unemployment is high. While you can file for unemployment insurance with a simple application, getting approved for these benefits may be a bit more complicated. It’s important to know if you qualify, understanding which paperwork you need to gather, and learning how to get through the process.

First, you must determine if you’re eligible for unemployment insurance. This benefit is typically only available to individuals who’ve lost their jobs through no fault of their own, such as from a general layoff, and not to those who’ve been fired for a misdeed or who’ve left their jobs of their own volition. In addition, you’ll need to meet some baseline earnings requirements. This is determined through what’s called the base period, which is the four previous calendar quarters. States can set their own maximum payment. Other qualifications are set by individual states and may vary across the country. For example, in some states, you may not be eligible for unemployment insurance if you receive severance pay. However, it’s important to check with your state’s unemployment benefits program before beginning the application process.

Begin by contacting your state’s unemployment insurance office, which can often be completed online. You may need to register on the phone rather than online, and you should do this as soon as you lose your job. At the same time, you should begin gathering the paperwork and information that your state will require from you. Of course, you’ll already have some of this information, such as your address and Social Security number. However, you may need to gather proof of your work history and of all your income from at least the past 12 to 18 months if possible. This could include W–2s, paystubs, bank account statements, and other forms of written documentation. You’ll need additional information if you’re not a U.S. citizen, if you’re a Federal employee, or if you’re a former armed service member.

If possible, file your application online, because this is usually the fastest way to get your claim submitted. However, depending on your state, you may also file a claim in person or over the phone.

Once you return to work, you’ll need to end your unemployment insurance coverage because you’ll no longer qualify for the program. Many states require that you notify their unemployment benefits agency online or via phone as soon as you start a new full-time job. Although it may be tempting to hang on to any extra payments that you receive, you’ll find yourself burdened with hefty financial penalties if this is ever discovered through an audit. On the other hand, you may still be able to keep your benefits if you can’t return to a full-time job or to your usual number of hours. Keep in mind that the rules in your state most likely require you to be actively looking for work while you’re receiving benefits. Be sure that you find out exactly what your state requires so that your benefits are not impacted.

Start the process by gathering all the paperwork you need and by checking out your state’s requirements.