Applying for Unemployment Benefits

Applying for unemployment benefits has become easier than it was just a decade ago. In most states people are able to apply for unemployment online instead of having to stand in line for hours to request benefits.

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Qualifications for benefits vary from one state to another. To find out if you qualify for unemployment, start by visiting the Department of Labor website for your state to learn how to start the application process.

The process of requesting unemployment benefits starts with filing out a claim form, which allows representatives for the state where you live or are applying for benefits to determine if you qualify. Most states allow individuals to file unemployment online, or you may need to contact your local unemployment office to apply in person. Some states also allow telephone claims. Most sate DOL websites provide information that can help you determine if you are likely to qualify for benefits even before you apply.

Not everyone can get unemployment benefits. If you were fired from your job for poor behavior or missing work, you likely will not qualify. Individuals must be released from work through no fault of thier own to qualify for benefits. Some examples of qualifying terminations include the job loss due to downsizing, being laid-off due to lack of available work, or the company going out of business.

• File Unemployment in New York: Visit the New York State Department of Labor to file for unemployment online.

• File Unemployment in California: To file unemployment or disability in California, visit the Employment Development Department for the state.

• File Unemployment in Texas: To file an application in Texas, visit the Texas Workforce website. Trade related unemployment might find additional claim options here as well.

• File Unemployment in Florida: In the state of Florida, the [Agency for Workforce Innovation] provides a very simple to use online application form.

• File Unemployment in Pennsylvania: In Pennsylvania, most employment related needs, including unemployment, are at the Department of Labor and Industry website.

These are just a few of the states that offer online unemployment applications. It's likely that you'll be able to find details specific to your situation on your state's DOL website.

To apply for unemployment benefits, you will need to have specific information to complete the application. The following information is typically required to apply for benefits:

• Last date of employment
• Reason for job loss
• Your social security number or your alien registration number for those who are not citizens
• Your expected recall date, if you are experiencing a temporary layoff
• Any union hiring hall information, including the local phone number and address for union employees
• Addresses and phone numbers for the last two to four employers
• Beginning and end dates for each job you have held
• Reasons for separation from prior employers

You'll need to choose a login name and password when you apply for unemployment online. Be careful to remember these items and keep them private. You will use them to gain access to your account to learn if your application has had approval and to reapply for unemployment benefits during the time you are receiving benefits. Some states allow you to do this reapplication online while others make you come in to the unemployment office to show proof of your search for a job.

Applying for unemployment benefits is a systematic process. Once you have determined the way you will file (over the web, phone or in person) submit your application in full. Ensure all information is accurate since mistakes will only delay the process. The application then receives review. This usually occurs within a few days of applying, but keep in mind each state's application process is slightly different.

Some states will send a claim confirmation form and a handbook to you in the mail. Those who receive approval to file benefits will also receive a notice stating how much they will receive in the mail. If you do not qualify, they will alert you to why not.

Once you start to receive your unemployment benefits, you will likely need to file weekly or bi-weekly claims to continue to receive your check. This happens online or over the phone. Be sure to know when the unemployment week starts (Sunday or Monday) and how often you need to file.

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