If you have lost your job, then you are probably debating whether you are eligible for unemployment or not. This can be nerve-wracking because you don’t know how much compensation you will get and for how long; that is if you qualify. The first thing you need to understand is that each state has its unemployment agency that deals with all matters of unemployment and employment.

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However, there are certain eligibility requirements that you must meet to qualify for unemployment benefits. Depending on your state, you will need to have worked for a specific number of weeks and hours each week to qualify. These strict guidelines will determine how many weeks you will get to collect the unemployment benefit.

Where to start

The first step is to visit your state’s official website to find detailed information. In most cases, your state will require you to have worked for a specific period, met a minimum earning threshold, and have lost your employment without your own making. The good news is that you can always appeal if your claim is contested with your previous employer or denied by the state.

What happens if you were terminated from your job with a cause? Well, you still have a chance of collecting unemployment depending on the circumstance and the justification of the sacking. You have rights and need to start fighting for your rights before you give up on filling for the benefits that you deserve due to technicalities.

Requirements to qualify for unemployment

Although the different states have different requirements to qualify for employment, two main requirements are mandatory.

1. You are not to blame for the job loss

What this means is that you did not directly cause job loss. The cause of your job loss needs to be an external factor that you had no control over, such as a layoff. Let’s, say you quit your job or got fired for misconduct; then, you get disqualified from unemployment benefits on the spot.

However, there may be some exceptions, such as constructive discharge and wrongful termination. Such circumstances happen more often than you might think, which means that there is always a chance that you qualify for unemployment benefits.

2. You meet your state’s requirement for wages earned and time worked

This requirement is rather confusing, especially since states have different standards set. However, if you have had a steady job that you have lost without just cause or unexpectedly, then you probably qualify for the unemployment benefits.

Reasons that may disqualify you from unemployment benefits

You probably know by now that not everyone will qualify for unemployment. In some situations, you will not receive anything from the state. It is important to know some of the reasons that you may disqualify your claim. Below are the top reasons that apply in all states:

• Fired for poor behavior or misconduct
Many people lose their job in the U.S due to workplace misconduct. You must maintain high standards of work ethics and respect for your colleagues. Being fired for misconduct or bad behavior disqualifies you from unemployment benefits because you are in control of your behavior.
• Quitting your job
It is assumed that you only quit your job when you have other prospects. If you needed the money, then you wouldn’t quit in the first place. If you plan on collecting unemployment benefits, then never quit your job because you disqualify yourself right on the spot.
• Resigned due to an illness
If you had to leave your job due to some sort of illness, then you need to apply for disability and not unemployment. In all states, illness is considered a disability, and you will always qualify.
• Self-employment
If you decide to leave your job to focus on your own business, then you don’t qualify for unemployment. Should your business not take off for some reason, then you won’t get any unemployment benefits.
• Attending school
School is for personal betterment and a choice that you make by yourself. You don’t qualify for unemployment if you decide to leave your job to further your studies. The best option is to attend evening or online classes. You can always multi-task if you want it bad enough.
• Insubordination and harassment
Harassment or insubordination automatically disqualifies you from getting unemployment benefits. It is paramount that you always carry yourself properly when in the workplace and follow the chain of command.

Check with the state unemployment office

To know the specific benefits that you are entitled to, check with your state’s unemployment offices. You will get to know the exact amount that you qualify for and for how long. Some states have instituted maximum payout timelines or amounts, and you need to be prepared for such.

You need to act quickly so that you can start receiving your unemployment benefits as soon as possible. Understand that some states have a waiting period before you can start getting your unemployment benefits.

How to claim your unemployment benefits

In most states, you can open your claim and file for benefits online. The process is much easier, and you get your payments deposited in your checking account or debit card. In some states, you need to register at the job service and show that you are seeking work actively to qualify for unemployment.
When you sign up for the job service, you will have to take a job that meets certain standards when you get the opportunity. If you pass on such a job, then you automatically cancel your unemployment benefits.

Maintaining your eligibility

To keep getting your unemployment benefits, you need to show that you are actively job-seeking. You need to give weekly or monthly updates on your job search and the milestones you have achieved. In some states, you have to make in-person check-ins with a government employee to discuss your job hunt.

Conclusion

Understand that the unemployment benefits are not a permanent solution, and you need to look for a source of income. If for any reason, your application gets denied, then you can always appeal. The hearing on your case will be done through the phone, and you just may end up qualifying.