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Losing your job can be frustrating and stressful. However, if you meet the requirements, you may be able to receive temporary unemployment insurance through your state unemployment agency. This guide on how to file for unemployment will provide you with an overview of how you can go about applying to receive unemployment insurance.
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Introduction
If you have lost your job, you may be wondering how you will get the money to make ends meet while you look for another one. Fortunately, the U.S. government offers temporary financial assistance to most of those who have become unemployed, through no fault of their own. The criteria, that determines whether you are eligible to receive unemployment insurance, how much you will receive and for how long, varies from state to state, so contact your local state unemployment agency for specific information. -
Step 1: Determine Whether You Qualify
- To receive unemployment insurance, you must meet certain criteria. Although preconditions vary between states, most require that you:
- Must have become unemployed by no fault of your own, such as being laid off. If you were fired for good cause or quit your job without good reason you may not be eligible
- Must have earned a minimum amount of wages in a specified amount of time before you file
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Step 2: Contact Your Local Agency
(Creative Commons photo by Speaker Pelosi)As soon as you become unemployed, contact your state unemployment agency for information on how to make your claim. Some states allow you to file a claim online or over the phone. In most cases, it will take at least two and up to four weeks after you file your claim to receive your first benefit check.
When filing your claim, you will have to provide specific information about your employment history. To avoid delay, ensure that the information you provide is complete and correct.
If you are living in a different state from the one in which you recently worked or have employment history that spans two or more states, contact your local agency for more information on how to file your claim.
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Step 3: Once You Receive Your Reply
- If your claim for unemployment insurance is denied, you or your previous employer may appeal the decision and should do so as soon as possible. Your state unemployment agency can provide you with more information on the appeal process.
- If your claim is approved, ensure that you continue to be eligible by meeting the necessary requirements. Your state agency should provide you with information on these requirements, which may consist of:
- Filing biweekly claims with the agency
- Attending an interview or appointment at the agency or employment office
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What You Can Expect to Receive
Although benefits vary between states, if you are approved to receive unemployment insurance, you will receive a biweekly check for up to 26 weeks in most states. The amount of your checks will be a percentage of your wages over the previous year. During times of high unemployment or if your individual situation dictates it, you may be eligible to receive extended benefits. -
Conclusion
Temporary financial aid is provided through unemployment benefits for people who have become unexpectedly unemployed and meet certain criteria. As soon as you become unemployed, contact your state's agency to determine whether you qualify and to receive information on how to file your claim.
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