Unemployment insurance helps many people stay on their feet while in between jobs. However, it can be difficult to know when you should apply for unemployment yourself. In order to make an informed decision, here is a look at the advantages of filing for unemployment insurance.
Why should I file an unemployment claim?
Unemployment insurance was instituted for the benefit of all citizens. The entire system is governed by a few federal guidelines but it is maintained and paid for by each individual state. This means that you are paying for the unemployment insurance of others by purchasing from businesses that have to pay state unemployment tax.
What type of unemployment claim should I file?
The type of claim you file depends on the nature of your unemployment. Here is a quick look at the types of unemployment that you may be eligible for:
- Fired: If you were fired from your job, chances are high that you are eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. As long as you were fired due to no direct fault of your own, you should be eligible.
- Quit: If you willingly quit your job then you are most likely ineligible for unemployment benefits. However, if you can prove to your unemployment office that you quit because of working conditions or harassment at your job then you may still be able to get the benefits you need.
- Contested: Sometimes, places of employment will list you as a contracted worker instead of as an employee. A contracted worker is classified as self-employed and is therefore not eligible for unemployment aid. If this occurs, you can submit a contest through your unemployment office to try and show that you were an employee. If you succeed, you will be able to receive unemployment aid.
What are the advantages of filing for unemployment?
While unemployment is something that is avoided by most, there are benefits to applying for aid. The biggest benefit is the income you will receive from your unemployment office while you are searching for a new job. However, when receiving unemployment checks, keep in mind that it will still need to be reported as income for tax purposes.
Aside from the small income from the unemployment office, you may also have access to other forms of aid. This comes in the form of direct help in finding a new job. While receiving unemployment aid, you are expected to continually maintain a search for a new job. Unemployment offices will require meetings, updates, and records of your job search and any positions that were offered to you. If they find that you refused a reasonable job offer, you will lose your benefits. The office may also offer help editing your resume or even provide special job training.
Everything offered by unemployment offices is meant to help you find a job and get back on your feet. If you are receiving benefits, take full advantage of everything your local office will have to offer. Remember, if the office finds that you are not doing what they believe to be enough in your search for a new job, they will not hesitate to end your unemployment aid.
