Lost of a job in Ohio may create the need to know how to file for unemployment. If the job loss was through no fault of the employee, unemployment benefits may be provided to help with the loss of income until a new job can be found. Taking timely action to apply for the benefits is critical to receiving a first check soon after the job loss and receiving all possible benefits.

The first action required is to file for unemployment. Individuals may or may not be eligible for benefits, but applying is the only way to determine this. There are set steps to take before applying Filing for unemployment compensation in Ohio is relatively easy; it can be done by phone or online. Unemployed individuals should file as soon as possible. The claim will begin the Sunday of the calendar week the application is filed so delays will impact when the first payment arrives.

Not everyone who applies for unemployment benefits will be able to receive them, as certain requirements must first be met. In order to be eligible to collect unemployment in the state of Ohio, you must:http://jfs.ohio.gov/unemp_comp_faq/faq_elig_definitions1.stm

1. Have become unemployed through no fault of your own
2. Have worked 20 weeks and and earned sufficient wages during an established base period
3. Have received a minimum weekly wage of at least $213 during the base period
4. Be able and available to work in your chosen occupation
5. Be actively seeking new employment and keep a weekly record of your job search and contacts
6. You may be required to register with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Service's Sharing Career Opportunities and Training Information (SCOTI)

• To file an unemployment claim in the state of Ohio, you will need:http://jfs.ohio.gov/unemp_comp_faq/faq_apply.stm#documentation

1. Your Social Security number
2. Your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address
3. Information about each employer you worked for in the past six weeks, including:
   1. Name
   2. Address
   3. Telephone number
   4. Dates of employment
4. Information about any employer you worked for out of state over the past 18 months, including:
   1. Name
   2. Address
   3. Telephone number
   4. Dates of employment
5. Reason you became unemployed
6. Your spouse's name and Social Security number
7. Names, Social Security numbers and dates of birth for all dependents
8. Alien Registration number (if applicable)
9. Your regular occupation and job skills

As in many other states, Ohio residents may apply for unemployment insurance benefits in one of two ways: either over the Internet or by making a phone call. The former may be faster for those who are computer-savvy, while the latter may be preferable to those with no Internet at home.

1. Online: go to http://unemployment.ohio.gov
   1. Claims may be filed 24/7
   2. You must have Internet Explorer 4.0 and higher or Mozilla Firefox 2.0 and higher to access the system
   3. You must also have Adobe Acrobat Reader version 4.02 or higher
2. Via telephone
   1. Call 1-877-644-6562
   2. Call center is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.http://jfs.ohio.gov/unemp_comp_faq/faq_apply.stm#filing_options

• Losing a job is never an easy experience, but unemployment benefits can help tide you over until you secure your next job. If you are an Ohio worker who was recently laid off, you may be eligible for up to 26 weeks of weekly unemployment benefits.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional financial advice. Please contact your financial adviser before using the information presented here.