How do I File Unemployment the right way?
Do you know How to File Unemployment the correct way?
The wrong way can result in a delay, an award of less than the full amount of benefits due, or an outright denial of your claim.
As you transition between jobs, knowing the correct way to file unemployment can result in up to ,000 in benefits during your search.
Unemployment will not replace your income. Unemployment is a way to help you during the time between jobs. That said, a job search can take weeks, even months putting a serious strain on any budget.
If you file unemployment, there are 7 major factors to keep in mind.
1. Do you meet the requirements for unemployment? Unemployment is a state benefit, which means the requirements for eligibility vary widely from state to state. There is much more to merely being unemployed or being laid off. In many cases, under-employment, as well as certain instances that allow for being fired or quitting, is considered when you file unemployment. Will you remain eligible? You can be disqualified before you file, during the filing process, as well as during the continued benefits time period.
2. Amount. We can help determine how much unemployment benefits you’re eligible for. Sometimes people get as little as 0 per month, but are required to file more and more paperwork to recieve even that amount, which makes it often not worth your time.
3. When to file unemployment claim. You should in general file immediately after dismissal from your job. Because cases vary by state, deciding to file unemployment immediately after termination, is not necessarily always the best idea. In one particular case, we offered assistance to a young lady whose claim was delayed for over a month because she filed too early. If you have a workman’s compensation claim, that should be settled before you file unemployment.
4. Directions on how to File Unemployment. You can file unemployment online in all but six states. Typically this involves filing a claim with the state with supporting evidence. Once you turn in the application, you are no longer able to add or delete any of your information. Make sure the information with your claim is correct, and accurate.
5. Documentation and supporting arguments. Depending on your personal situation, we can recommend several arguments for you to use when filing your appication. Being factual is essential. Having said that you may desire to present facts in a specific way depending on your state laws and how exactly your ex-employer states their side of the case. In general if you quit your job you will need to show a specific reason for you to be eligible to claim unemployment. Some of the reasons are: sexual and/or gender harassment, abuse involving a child or dependent elderly parent or transportation issues where no suitable alternative is available.
6. Last, any decision by your state’s agency can be appealed. There’s a phrase that applies in some cases: “You can wrestle with a pig in the mud, but the pig enjoys it and you just get dirty”. While state employees prefer not to deal with appeals, and in some cases it can be a waste of time, other times it can result in the awarding of full unemployment benefits.
Last, here are a few common mistakes that will save you time and hassle. The tips above are from our 9-step re-employment system, which was designed to save you time, and money, and to get you the maximum benefits available when you file unemployment. Here are 3 common mistakes (naturally, our guide has many more you can avoid):
1. Filing a claim on Monday. If you like staying on hold, or waiting at the office, filing on Monday morning is best left to the overwhelming majority who are dismissed on Friday and then file on Monday. Instead, use your time on Monday to get hold of valued contacts to see if they know about any job openings. If you file over the internet, you cannot use your previous week to support your claim, in some states.
2. Not utilyzing one’s social network. Over 40% of hires are made based on relationships. Job boards, and classified ads are fine, but they’re far less effective than turning to the people who know and respect you.
3. Providing more information than necessary can lead to disqualification. The general rule of thumb is, provide as little information as possible. These days, anyone wanting to file unemployment should know the system is stretched thin, and as a result, the slightest mistake will be enough to result in denial.
It’s hard on a person when they lose their job. In not only affects your pocketbook, it affects your emotions, and even your self-confidence. Ever noticed that when the highest-paid exectutives manage to get million-dollar severance packages, and no matter what seem ok? Our system to help you file unemployment can turn this into an opportunity. If handled properly, you can benefit from a change in employment. If done wrong, it can set your career and finances back for years.
