How to Qualify for Unemployment

Unemployed Worker

Determine whether or not you qualify for unemployment checks and benefits. These benefits can help you financially when you begin a new job search and recently found yourself unemployed. Most people who have been laid off due to downsizing qualify for state unemployment insurance.

Things You'll Need

• Employer Information
• Date of Employment
• Reason for Unemployment
• State Unemployment Insurance Eligibility

Instructions

1. Determine eligibility by assessing your job loss. Those who have quit work willingly generally do not qualify for unemployment, unless it was for medical reasons. If you are unable to work again due to illness or disability, you do not qualify.

2. File an unemployment claim. This is done by the state government, not federal. Visit the department of labor or state unemployment agency. Many claims can now be conducted over the telephone or through the internet as well (see link in resource section). Additional eligibility requirements may be required as they differ from state to state.

3. Present employer information. When filing your claim, make sure to have the employer's address as well as the dates of your employment.

4. Wait for the claim to be reviewed. This usually takes around two to three weeks.

5. Continue to file claims either weekly or biweekly according to each state. You must maintain previous eligibility requirements in order to continue to receive unemployment benefit checks.

Tips & Warnings

• File claims in the state where you previously worked, not currently reside.

• Do not lie or provide false or inaccurate information. This is against the law and could prevent you from receiving potential benefits.

Resources

• US Department of Labor
• How to Obtain Food Stamps