A sudden job loss or layoff in the recession is not only traumatic, but it affects many families in the United States every year. Workers with a steady job history may find themselves looking for unemployment benefits for the first time. Knowing whether one qualifies for unemployment checks from the government and how to go about getting government assistance is crucial.
Who Qualifies for State Unemployment Insurance
Employees who have been laid off during company downsizing usually qualify for unemployment benefits. Workers who willingly quit and leave their jobs, unless for medical reasons, normally will not qualify for unemployment.
Injured or disabled workers who are not able to work again do not qualify for unemployment benefits. The best assurance for this type of job loss is disability insurance, which is not a government assistance program. Employees can usually purchase disability insurance through their employer or through private companies.
Filing a State Unemployment Claim
If an employee has lost his or her job and needs to obtain unemployment benefits,he or she will need to file a state unemployment claim. Contact the department of labor or the state unemployment agency to file the claim. Remember that unemployment eligibly and benefits vary from state to state since it is a state managed assistance program not a federal program.
Some states now allow claimants to file over the telephone or via the internet. By contacting the state through one of these resources, one can further determine if he or she is eligible.
Steps to Get Unemployment Checks
Certain information is needed in order for an unemployment claim to be processed. The unemployed person must present previous employer information such as an address and perhaps a telephone number. The name of the supervisor may also be necessary. Also be sure to have the dates of employment handy.
Claims usually take around two to three weeks to be reviewed after they have been submitted. If one qualifies, they will be contacted during this time.
People who receive unemployment benefits and checks must re-submit a claim every week or two weeks depending on the state. In order to keep receiving the benefits, the person must maintain the same eligibility requirements if they want to keep receiving them.
About Unemployment Benefits and Checks
Laid off workers can apply for unemployment benefits through their state, but they must maintain eligibility in order to keep receiving unemployment checks. One can file a claim either over the phone or through the internet by providing important employee and work information after contacting the department of labor or state unemployment agency.
Receiving unemployment helps those who are struggling financially due to a loss of a job or income. Although it does not replace the lost income, the benefits help a family get their feet back on solid financial ground while the unemployed member looks for a finds another job.
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