How to File For Unemployment Benefits in the State of New Jersey
If you are one of the many people who have lost their jobs during the current economic downturn, it is important to apply for unemployment benefits promptly. Unemployment insurance provides a helpful resource until you can get back on your feet. In New Jersey, you can apply online or by phone.
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Instructions
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Wait until you are unemployed to file an unemployment claim. Even if you know you are scheduled to be laid off in a week or two, you cannot file for unemployment in New Jersey unless you are already unemployed.
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Confirm that you are eligible for unemployment benefits. To qualify for unemployment benefits in New Jersey, you must have worked at least 20 base weeks during the year before the date of your claim or earned at least $7,200.
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Gather information about yourself and your unemployment, such as your social security number, information about any money you are currently collecting, including a pension or 401(k), and information about the employment that you have held for the past 18 months, including the reasons for leaving the job and any severance package.
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Collecting unemployment benefits requires you to be responsible. You may have to visit a local New Jersey Reemployment Center. You must look for and accept reasonable work when it is offered. You cannot just collect unemployment benefits as if they are free money.
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Visit the New Jersey Unemployment Insurance Benefits website to file for unemployment claim, or call the appropriate phone number listed at the State of New Jersey Department of Work Force and Development website.
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To file online, click "File an unemployment claim." Continue onto the next page and read the qualifications to collect unemployment benefits in New Jersey. Go to the next page. If this is your first time filing for unemployment after losing your current position, and you do not have an Unemployment Benefits Online ID and password, fill out your personal information on the next page to open your account.
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Your unemployment benefit will be mailed promptly after you file and each week thereafter, so file in a timely manner. If you do not claim your New Jersey unemployment benefits on time, your claim could be deferred or denied.
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Once you begin collecting unemployment, begin or continue looking for work. Collecting unemployment is a limited opportunity, so you cannot count on it as full-time income.
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Keep your unemployment benefit information current. If you move, alert the state of New Jersey. If you miss an appointment, call your Reemployment Call Center. Do not forget about these necessities to keep your unemployment benefits. You must continue to file for unemployment with your ID and password weekly either online or by telephone.
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