How to Claim Unemployment Benefits

Most states begin paying unemployment benefits in two to three weeks.

Federal unemployment benefits are administered by individual state governments. While there are some federal eligibility guidelines, the rules that determine the amount of money you may receive and the length you receive them are usually left to the states. While these guidelines offer up some general pointers, it is essential that you also determine what rules are in place in the state where you live.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Any paperwork you recieved when you were laid off or left your last job
• State-issued identification card
• Banking account information

Contact Your Local State Unemployment Office

1. The majority of state unemployment offices have websites and nearly all of them allow you to apply for unemployment benefits online. If that is the case, the process will be much easier. If your state does not have online access, you can apply for benefits by phone or in person.

2. Provide information required by the state unemployment guidelines. This will include your previous employment, an explanation of why you lost your job, your Social Security number and usually a state-issued ID. Most states offer the option of direct-depositing your benefits into your account. If that is the case, you'll need your banking information.

3. Keep track of your job search efforts. While you're waiting for benefits to begin, look for a new job. Each state has slightly different guidelines, but they all require unemployment applicants to search for new jobs while receiving benefits. Most states will randomly ask applicants to show proof of their job search efforts. Keep track of everyone you have contacted, not just because the state unemployment office might ask for the information, but because it also helps you keep track of your efforts.

4. Determine which other state and federal benefits you might qualify for. Your state unemployment office is a good resource for information on training programs and scholarships that are often available to residents receiving unemployment. Other programs also aid with medical care, housing and other essentials. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average person is out of work for 40 weeks.

5. Notify your state unemployment office of any change in your status. That includes any change of address or other personal information as well as any income you receive while you are unemployed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you live in one state but worked in another start your unemployment benefits claim in the office closest to your home.

• If your claim is denied you can file an appeal. File any appeal within the time limits that are on the form. Unemployment claims can be denied or delayed if you quit without good cause or were fired for misconduct. Misconduct can be things like stealing, having drugs in the workplace or fighting. Quitting without cause would be something like you didn't like the job, it was too hard or you didn't think you were paid enough.

• Failing to disclose other income or lying about you job search efforts can lead to the loss of your benefits and/or prosecution for fraud. The federal government takes unemployment fraud seriously and has encouraged states to cross-reference applicant information in an effort to catch fraudulent activity.

References

• U.S. Department of Labor: State Unemployment Insurance Benefits
• Career One-Stop: America's Service Locator