How to File an Unemployment Claim

In these troubling economic times, most people are doing whatever they need to in order to not lose their jobs. Most companies have been working hard to keep afloat without turning to a dreaded eventuality: layoffs. But sometimes, there is nothing in the world that can avert being let go by an employer. When this happens, unemployment benefits will be there to help you. While you were working you were paying into the unemployment benefit through taxes. Now is the time for that tax to help you. Here is how to file a claim.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet
• Pay Stubs
• Address of Your Employer

Instructions

1. Don't panic. It's not as simple as you might think, but keeping your head straight will make this an easier time for you and your loved ones. Talk to your family about what is going on. There is no need to shoulder the burden alone. That can lead to frustration and resentment. Remember the plan is to get unemployment so there will be income. And your family can aid you.

2. Contact your former company's human resources department. You need to ascertain that the reason you were terminated from employment is one that classifies as a layoff or other reason that was not of your doing. Remember, if for some reason you have been placed in the company's records as being terminated for something of your doing, you may not receive part or all of you unemployment benefits.

   While you're at it, verify the company's address and phone number since your state unemployment agency will have you enter or verify the address. Sometimes the unemployment can be handled by a third party. This is very common for bankrupt companies that will fold. Get the information before you file.

3. File for your initial unemployment claims. There are a few ways to file an unemployment claim: Internet, phone, mail and in person. Most states allow initial claims to be filed online at their state website. The Internet is by far the easiest way to file a claim as long as you have all the information you need.

   You can also call it in if your state does not have a website dedicated to it. This can be a long process and you may have to spend a lot of your time on hold, so be prepared. Also be polite. The person on the other end is most likely entering upwards of a hundred claims a day. Don't give the person who is helping to pay your mortgage a reason to hang up on you.

   Some states have you mail in a claim or file in person. Although this is not as common as it used to be, remember that your state has a right to dictate how you file. Follow their rules.

4. File your weekly claims. Depending on what state you live in, you may have to file your claims biweekly. You will be sent the date (usually with your check) of when you can file for your benefits again. DO NOT FORGET. If you do, you risk losing out on all future payments.

Resources

• Recovery: Stimulus Information (2009)