How To Collect Unemployment Benefits

Through the Federal State Unemployment Insurance Program, workers who become unemployed for reasons determined under the state law can access monetary unemployment benefits for a period of time until the individual gets re-employed. Though federal law establishes unemployment insurance policies, states have the task of direct administration, and thus eligibility requirements, amount of unemployment compensation and the length of time it is to be disbursed depend on where you live. If you have just become unemployed, you need to take immediate action to claim your unemployment benefits, as it will take weeks before you get paid.

1. Check resources for unemployment benefits online. A good place to start is at the Department of Labor or the One-Stop Career Center System. Prior to visiting your state unemployment insurance office, you can find all the necessary information about your claim, such as where to file for unemployment, eligibility and disqualifications, extended benefits, insurance, wage replacement rate and the process for claiming your check. It is important to understand what particular rules apply in your state concerning unemployment benefits. For some states, you can file for unemployment benefits online or via phone.
2. If you are qualified to apply for unemployment benefits, be ready to provide information such as your social security number, mailing address, driver's license, your compensation, and information about your former employer like employer's federal ID number, name, address and phone number. You will also be asked why you left your job. Reason for being unemployed is determined under state law. You should not be unemployed without good cause or for reasons such as being guilty of misconduct, involved in labor disputes, illness, pursuing graduate studies, getting married, etc.
3. If you are eligible, it usually takes two to three weeks from the time you filed for unemployment insurance benefits before you start receiving your payment. The amount usually depends on your last job's compensation rate. You will get your benefits for a number of weeks, a maximum of 26 weeks in most states. Be aware that your check is also subject to federal tax or state tax.
4. While claiming your unemployment benefits, the state will require you to register with the State Employment Service to help you get employed again. Your job search will be provided with all the labor market information and employment services, which you can access for free, such as job listings, career counseling, trainings, etc. However, you should always be ready and available to work again when you are offered a job. You cannot turn down a job offer unless the type of work does not suit your skill or experience. Every week you will need to prove you are searching for work, otherwise you will not be able to collect your check. Keep all appointments when you are asked for interviews in order to continue receiving your benefits.

When you finally have a new job, do not forget to immediately inform the unemployment office in order to let them determine the right time to discontinue your unemployment benefits.