File Unemployment

Do you know How to File Unemployment the correct way?

The wrong way will result in denial of claims, delay in award, or less than full award amount.

The correct way to file unemployment can help you transition between careers with up to $15,000 in benefits, typically at up to $1,200 per month and in select cases, up to $2,000.

Unemployment is not intended to replace your income. It is intended to help you through the time required to become re-employed. That said, finding the right job, interviewing, starting work, and then getting your first paycheck two to four weeks later can strain any budget.

There are 7 major factors to consider when you file unemployment.

1. Are you Eligible? Unemployment is a state benefit, (there is no federal unemployment benefit), and therefore eligibility varies widely by state. There is more to merely being unemployed or being laid off. In many cases, being under-employed can qualify you for benefits, or various circumstances that allow for being fired or quitting can still allow you to successfully file unemployment. Next, will you continue to stay eligible? You can become disqualified before you file unemployment, during the filing process, or after application during the continued benefits time period.

2. Award Amount. We can help you determine how much in unemployment benefits you are eligible for. In some cases, people are awarded as little as $100 per month, but required to file ongoing paperwork to recieve even that award, which makes it frankly not worth your time.

3. Timing of when to File Unemployment. Generally, you want to file immediately upon your dismissal. That said, your case may vary based on your state, and the nature of your termination, so "file unemployment" immediately is definitely not a one-size-fits-all strategy. In one particular case we assisted with, a young lady had her claim delayed by over 5 weeks because she filed one week too early. If you are dealing with a potential workman's compensation claim, complete that before you file.

4. How to File Unemployment. In all but 6 states you can file unemployment online. Typically this involves filing a claim with the state with supporting evidence. Like any information, it cannot be "put back" or withdrawn once the application is made. Be sure you are provide the right information with your claim.

5. Supporting Documentation and Arguments. Depending on your personal situation, we can recommend a few arguments to use in your application. These need to be factual. That said, you may wish to present the facts in a certain way depending on your state's laws, and the how your former employer states their case. Generally, if you quit your job, in order to be eligible, there needs to be one of a few specific reasons present. These might include workplace safety issues including sexual or gender harassment, issues at home such as to prevent domestic abuse of a minor child or dependent elderly parent, or transportation issues such as car failure when no suitable alternative exists such as a bus.

6. Last, any decision by your state's agency can be appealed. That said, there's a phrase that applies in some cases: "You can wrestle with the pig in the mud, but the pig likes it and you get dirty". While state employees never like dealing with appeals, in some cases it's a waste of time, while in others it can provide a reversal of denial and full award.

Last, here are a few common mistakes that will save you time and hassle. The tips above are excerpts from our full guide packed with help on how to file unemployment, designed to save you time and money and hassle, get you the maxiumum benefits, and help you financially with our 9-step re-employment system. Here are 3 common mistakes (naturally, our guide has many more you can avoid):

1. Filing on a 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 Monday to reach valued contacts at your former employer to ask their help for referrals to other companies who are hiring. If you file over the internet, you cannot use your previous week to support your claim, in some states.

2. Not using one's social network. Over 40% of hires are made based on relationships. Dealing with job boards and classified ads is great, but far less effective than relying on the people who know and respect you.

3. Providing too much information, leading to disqualification. We cannot issue advice to encompass all situations, but in general, don't provide any more than the bare minimum. 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.

Becoming unemployed is tough. It challenges your emotions and self confidence, and inevitably your budget. Have you ever noticed that sometimes the highest-paid exectutives manage to "fall up", get million-dollar severance packages, and no matter what seem just fine? Our complete guide and system to help you file unemployment can help you turn a closed door into an opportunity. You can profit from a change of employment if done right. If done wrong, it can set your career and finances back for years.