How to Get Unemployment Benefits

Unemployed people look over job listings in New York state.

The eligibility requirements and procedures to get unemployment benefits vary by state. The benefit amount is usually half of your wages, up to a certain maximum. The maximum benefit period is usually 26 weeks, but may be less if you've only worked for a few months during the past 18 months. During periods of high unemployment, you may be able to get unemployment benefits for an additional 13 to 33 weeks, depending on the state's policies and the state's unemployment level.

Instructions

1. Go to the federal unemployment office website and click on your state to go to your state's workforce agency's website.

2. Determine if you are eligible. Generally, in order to get unemployment benefits you must have worked within the past 15 to 18 months and have earned a minimum amount during that period. You may not qualify if you quit, were fired or stopped working because of illness or disability. You will not qualify if you are a full-time student. If you stopped working because of illness or disability, you may be eligible for state disability or worker's compensation. If you quit because you moved, you may be able to get relocation unemployment benefits.

3. Apply online, by mail, by phone or in person. An interview may be required, but it is often possible to complete the entire process online. In addition to submitting your application, you may be required to submit your resume to an online job search center and/or report to a work center.

4. Check the requirements for continued participation. You will probably be expected to look for work only within your field, and if you apply for jobs outside of your field you may be required to attend career counseling courses. Generally you must remain in the state, be looking for work, and be ready and able to work. There may be exceptions to the state residency requirements; check with your state.

5. Check with the federal unemployment insurance office to see if you qualify for an unemployment benefits extension. Extended benefits are available during times of economic crisis and offer between 13 and 33 weeks of additional benefits after the original state claim has expired. You may be eligible for extended benefits even if your maximum claim amount has been reached.

6. Follow your state's requirements for continued eligibility, such as filling out forms regularly to keep your claim open and continuing to look for a new job.

Tips & Warnings

• Most states offer the option of filing online. Since most unemployment offices are overwhelmed with claims and understaffed, it may take several weeks longer to get unemployment benefits if you apply by mail.

• Your checks will be subject to federal taxation, but these taxes may not be automatically witheld. You can request that the state witholds your federal taxes.

• If your unemployment benefits claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. See your state's website for more details.

References

• Department of Labor; Unemployment Insurance; June 16, 2011
• Service Locator: State Locator