Oregon workers who have been laid off or had their work hours cut may be eligible to collect unemployment benefits. There are certain steps required to file for unemployment in Oregon. Completing these steps both timely and accurately should allow unemployment benefits to be paid without delay.

If you have lost your job in the state of Oregon or have been furloughed for a period of time, it is important to submit an application for unemployment benefits. The application should be filed as soon as the unemployed period begins. Delaying may result in losing some of the eligible benefits. Oregon Employment Department offers an online calculator for estimating what the weekly benefit for each applicant will be. In order to use this calculator, wage information is needed for each quarter of work.http://findit.emp.state.or.us/ocs/estimator/ Other online tools are made available for applicants. Individuals may choose to file by phone but may find the state resources on the website useful in understanding how to file and what to expect after the application is submitted and approved.

Not all people who lose their jobs will be able to collect unemployment benefits. There are certain restrictions and requirements established by the state, and if you do not meet them you will not receive any compensation. In order to be eligible to collect unemployment in the state of Oregon, you must:http://www.employment.oregon.gov/EMPLOY/UI/docs/UI_forms/uipub_350-e_1009.pdf

1. Be unemployed through no fault of your own
2. Meet base period wages eligibility requirements
3. Be actively seeking new employment
4. Be physically and mentally able to work

Eligibility for unemployment benefits in Oregon is determined after you have filed a claim. If you are unsure if you qualify, file the claim as soon as possible to determine eligibility.

Even if you meet all of the requirements needed to qualify for unemployment benefits (as outlined in Step 1 above), you must be able to provide specific information in order to begin receiving your benefits. This information regards past employment and salary data, as well as personal info. Before you can file an unemployment claim in Oregon you will need:http://www.employment.oregon.gov/EMPLOY/STORIES/online_filing_success.shtml

1. Your Social Security number
2. Your work history for the past 18 months, including:
   1. Dates of employment
   2. Your employers' business names and addresses
   3. Employers' phone numbers
3. Your salary/total income from each employer
4. Your Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
5. Your phone number

• Unemployed workers in Oregon may apply for benefits two ways:http://www.employment.oregon.gov/EMPLOY/STORIES/online_filing_success.shtml

1. On the Internet, via Oregon's Online Claim System
2. By visiting the nearest Oregon Unemployment Insurance Center in your area. You will need to do this if:
   1. You were active in a branch of the military for 90 days or more over the last 18 months, excluding National Guard training
   2. You filed an unemployment insurance claim in any other state within the last year
   3. You haven't worked in Oregon in the past 18 months
   4. You worked as a merchant seaman in the past 18 months
   5. You are currently outside the U.S.

• If you have lost your job in the state of Oregon, or if you have had your hours cut through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to collect unemployment. The amount will vary, depending on your earnings in your previous job, but the money can help tide you over until you find a new job or until your hours are increased again.

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