Unemployment has reached an all-time high and Florida is no exception. Learn how to apply for unemployment benefits in Florida.
How to apply for Unemployment Benefits in Florida?
- If you have been separated from work, you can file your initial claim during your first week of total or partial unemployment.
- You can file your first claim in one of the two ways: by calling the TeleClaim Center or visiting a One-Stop Career Center close to you. Unluckily, you cannot file an initial claim online at this time.
- Have your entire information ready before filing your claim.
- If you have received severance pay upon your separation from work, you may still be eligible for unemployment benefits, so it is still important to call to file your initial claim during your first week of total or partial unemployment.
- If eligible for unemployment benefits, you can expect to receive your first payment in 3-4 weeks if there are no issues with your claim.
- In general, it takes approximately 3 weeks to process a claim; however, you will still need to claim benefits every week.
Information needed is as follows:
- Information needed is as follows:
- Your Social Security Number
- The year you were born
- Your home address and telephone number
- Whether you have filed an unemployment insurance claim in your state or in any other state during the past 12 months
- Your last day of employment
- The names and addresses of all of the employers you have worked for during the 15 months prior to filing your claim and the dates you worked for each of these employers. If you are reopening a claim, be ready with the same information for the past 8 weeks
- The reason that you are no longer working or that your hours have been reduced The names, dates of birth and social security numbers for any dependent children if you are going to apply for dependency allowance
- Form no. SF 8 or SF 50 if you were a federal employee
- Federal Employee Identification Number (FEIN) – this is found on any W2 or 1099 tax forms you have received
- In case you don’t have the FEIN, you can use employer details off of a recent paystub
- If you were military personnel, from DD-214 must be produced. Note that only member copies 2-8 of DD-214 are acceptable.
- Your alien registration number if you are not a U.S. citizen
If You Are Not a United States Citizen
You must give verification that you were legally eligible to work in your state and that you are presently eligible to begin a new job.
Want to know about how much you will receive?? —–>Calculate your benefits here
If you are laid-off, then you are not receiving any money to survive on. Many people start fearing, particularly if they are having a tough time finding a job. That’s why there is unemployment compensation, which pays off you for a certain amount of time while you are seeking another job. However, there are certain eligibility requirements and standards to be met to collect this compensation and each state has its own.
Here’s what you have to do to collect unemployment benefits in Florida.
Monetary Qualifications
First of all, you must qualify monetarily. A laid-off worker can be eligible for benefits provided that the individual has worked in covered employment and earned a lowest amount of wages in the base period.
- The claimant’s base period is the 1st four of the last five completed calendar quarters
- There should be wages in two or more quarters in the base period
- There must be a minimum of $3,400 in the base period and the claimant must have 1.5 times the high quarter wages in the base period
- The weekly benefit amount is 1/26th of the high quarter wages (the minimum is $32 and the maximum is $275).
- The maximum amount to be paid on a claim is 25% of the total wages in the base period. However, for claims filed before January 1, 2012, the utmost benefits cannot go beyond $7,150.
- Beginning January 1, 2012 the benefits to be paid in an claim are decided depending upon the average unemployment rate in Florida during the third calendar quarter of the year before the effective date of the claim. Claims filed during a year ranging from 12 weeks, when the jobless rate is 5% or less, to 23 weeks when the jobless rate is 10.5% or higher. The maximum benefits owed on a claim will thereby, range from$3,300 to $6,325.
Qualifying for Benefits
In order to be eligible for benefits, the worker must claim for benefits for each week. Apart from this, he/she must:
- Be totally or partially unemployed.
- File an initial claim for benefits and report as directed to file for succeeding weeks.
- Have the necessary wage credits for work in covered employment during the base period.
- Have worked and earned three times the current weekly benefit amount since the filing date of the previous claim, providing the individual received benefits on the previous claim.
- Be able to work and available for work, and be registered for and keenly seeking work.
- For claims filed on or after August 1, 2011 complete an on-line initial skills review.
- Take part in reemployment services, such as job search assistance services.
- Serve a waiting week, for which no benefits are owed, after filing an initial claim.
Disqualifying Factors
A claimant may be ineligible because of the reasons for separation from work. The facts concerning the circumstances causing the separation must be clearly established.
The following may disqualify an individual from receiving benefits:
- Voluntarily quit without good cause attributable to the employing unit.
- Suspended or discharged for misconduct connected with work irrespective of whether the misconduct occurs at the workplace or during working hours.
- Suspended or discharged for misconduct related with work consisting of drug use as evidenced by a positive, confirmed drug test.
- Failed without good cause either to apply for suitable work or to accept anywork or to return to customary self-employment when directed by DEO (Florida Department of Economic Opportunity).
- Unemployed due to a labor dispute in active progress which exists at the place of employment; and the individual is participating in or financing or directly interested in such labor dispute. In some cases, unemployment due to a lockout may not be disqualifying.
- Furnished false information or made a fake representation for the purpose of obtaining benefits such as not reporting earnings or job refusals. Willful misrepresentation is also cause for fine and imprisonment.
- Obtaining a retirement income from a base period employer.
- Receiving or seeking unemployment benefits under an unemployment compensation law of another state or the United States, unless the appropriate agency of such state or of the United States finally decides that the individual is not entitled to such jobless benefits.
- Alien, unless such alien has been lawfully admitted for permanent residence or otherwise is permanently residing in the United States under appearance of law.
- Terminated from employment for violation of any criminal law punishable by imprisonment or for any dishonest act in connection with the individual’s employment.
- Getting wages in place of notice or severance pay applicable to a claim week, which is equal to or greater than the claimant’s weekly benefit amount.
- Incarcerated during a week of unemployment.
Once you have passed the obstacle of determining your status, you must also consider other qualifying conditions as summarized by Florida Statues 443.091. The Agency for Workforce Innovation should find that you made a claim for benefits for the week, you are listed with the agency for work and you report to the one-stop career center.
Exception to Benefit Eligibility Conditions
If you are for the short term laid off because of lack of work, you still have to register and make a claim, but you will not be needed to report to the one-stop career center. If you are a union member who normally gets employment through a union hiring hall, you also do not have to report to the one-stop center, as per Florida Statutes 443.091.
So once you recognize that you’re eligible, you have to file a claim for unemployment compensation benefits. You can do this online at www.fluidnow.com or at the toll free number 1-800-204-2418. You can also file by mail. For detail check filing for Florida unemployment benefits article.
After you file your claim, then you need to wait and see how much your unemployment compensation pay will be. You will be sent a wage transcript clarifying what your wage credits and how long you may obtain benefits.
That’s how you get unemployment benefits in Florida State. You must first meet the eligibility requirements. After that you must file a claim and wait for your transcript determination. Then you can anticipate weekly unemployment pay to aid you and obtain another job.
Florida Unemployment Extensions Information
If you would like to know how to get an unemployment extension in Florida, you must first familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements. Note that oftentimes unemployment compensation extension is not readily available, since unemployment extension is mostly offered in times of high unemployment. It is up to each state to decide whether to launch special emergency programs that can help prolong the time period for reemployment assistance. Nonetheless, unemployed benefits should continue to actively look for a new job and be immediately available when a position opens. Because both regular unemployment benefits and unemployment benefits extensions are available for a limited amount of time, residents should not solely rely on these sources as a means to provide for their families.
Therefore, if you are wondering, how can I extend unemployment benefits in Florida?, explore the sections outlined below:
- How to apply for unemployment benefits extension in Florida
- Unemployment extension programs in Florida
Florida Unemployment Resources
How to Claim Benefits
How Extensions Work
Find Out How to Appeal Denied Benefits
What Can I Do to Extend Unemployment Benefits in Florida
If you are interested about learning how to get an unemployment extension in Florida, you must first note the eligibility requirements of your state. Although an unemployment extension applicant may be eligible for regular reemployment assistance, such eligibility does not necessarily make an individual qualified for unemployment compensation extension. In times when the rate of unemployment is high, state governments must make careful choices and select the candidates to whom they will continue to pay benefits. If, however, you are found eligible, you will receive a confirmation in the mail that notes for how long you may receive reemployment assistance. Note, however, that you can apply for unemployment benefits extension only if the state activates emergency programs. Extensions are not available otherwise, therefore after your regular unemployment benefit period has passed, you will not be eligible to receive any more benefits. If you are wondering how to get an unemployment extension of benefits and whether you will be eligible, visit your nearest DEO office to inquire. If you are eligible for extended benefits, the amount you will receive will match the amount of your regular unemployment benefits.
About Florida Federal Unemployment Extension Programs
Federal unemployment extension of benefits is made available when a state experiences a high level of unemployment, especially in times of economic crisis. Currently, Florida does not offer unemployment compensation extension and only releases payments for the standard unemployment benefits period. However, if the economic situation in the state worsens, the government will activate emergency programs such as:
The Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC).
The Extended Benefits (EB) Program.
The Emergency Unemployment Compensation program was last active in 2012. It consisted of four tiers or stages, each one offering a different period to receive unemployment benefits extension. The time span of unemployment expansion was as follows:
Tier 1 – 20 weeks of maximum unemployment extension
Tier 2 – 14 weeks of maximum unemployment extension
Tier 3 – 13 weeks of maximum unemployment extension
Tier 4 – Six weeks of maximum unemployment extension
You may also be eligible to apply for the FL Extended Benefits Program, which is a federal unemployment extension program administered on a state level. Qualified applicants can sign up after they have used their regular and EUC benefits, and while the state unemployment rate is still high. In Florida, you may be eligible to receive up to 20 additional weeks of extended benefits, or 80 percent of the maximum amount of your regular unemployment claim, whichever is less.
Note: Unemployment benefits extension programs in Florida are only available during times of economic crisis and lack of open job positions. However, all eligible benefits recipients are required to look for at least five jobs per week and submit the results of their job search to the DEO. This rule was established in order to encourage unemployed individuals to actively look for a job, rather than to rely on limited government assistance. Claimants who fail to report their job-seeking activities will lose eligibility and be removed from the program.
Florida Unemployment Application Information
Former workers who are wondering where to register for unemployment benefits in Florida can file for an unemployment claim through the state Department of Economic Opportunity. However, prior to undergoing the FL unemployment registration procedure, you must meet the state’s unemployment insurance requirements, which follow the Department of Labor’s federal guidelines. Though, unlike the standard duration of 26 weeks in other U.S. states, Florida only offers 12 to 23 weeks of benefits. To file for unemployment in Florida, you may submit an online application for unemployment through the DEO website. In certain cases, workers can also submit their UI claims via alternative methods. If your claim is successful, you will receive benefits for as long as you meet Florida’s Reemployment Assistance (RA) requirements.
Read the below sections for information on topics such as how to apply for unemployment online and where to sign up for unemployment in Florida:
- How can I sign up for unemployment in Florida?
- What do I need to provide during the FL unemployment registration process?
Florida Unemployment Resources
Appealing Denied Benefits
Note that if you were denied unemployment benefits in Florida, you are within your rights to appeal the department’s decision by submitting an unemployment denial appeal. The prospects of winning your appeal depend on several factors. For instance, if your FL unemployment claim was denied due to valid reasons, such as not meeting the wage requirements, the department will not reconsider its decision. However, if you were fired as a result of wrongful termination, you can submit solid evidence to strengthen your appeal.
During times of high unemployment, you may also be able to apply for an unemployment benefits extension in Florida if you have expended your entire amount of standard unemployment benefits. The Florida unemployment compensation extension program, when active, generally provides the same amount of UI benefits, although for a shorter duration than standard benefits.
How can I sign up for unemployment in Florida?
To apply for unemployment benefits in Florida, you can submit an online application for unemployment through the department’s CONNECT website, which was specifically designed for managing UI claims. However, prior to using the CONNECT internet services, you must create a new claimant account and obtain your PIN number.
Then, you can sign in to your profile and follow these straightforward steps to submit your unemployment EDD application in Florida:
- Access the “Apply for Reemployment Assistance Benefits” menu.
- Answer the DEO questions regarding your UI benefits.
- Supply the necessary information and documents.
- Enter your contact information, such as your mailing address and your phone number.
- Provide detailed information about your employment history.
- Answer questions regarding your eligibility for UI benefits.
- Review your claim and confirm your submission.
When completing your CONNECT unemployment registration application, you can save your progress and finalize the procedure at a later time. After submitting your claim, you can access it again (by entering your PIN and Social Security Number) in order to enter any new data that may affect your UI benefits application.
Note: Applications may only be filed via telephone if you are computer illiterate or disabled. Claimants who cannot use the CONNECT application due to insufficient knowledge of the English language can also contact the DEO via phone.
What do I need to provide during the FL unemployment registration process?
Now that you know how and where to apply for unemployment in Florida, you must collect the information and documents necessary to file for unemployment benefits. Note that even if you are unable to provide all of the required items during your initial application, you can still apply for unemployment benefits in FL and supply the remaining data later. In general, you have to provide the following paperwork and information:
- Your Social Security Number and your FL driver’s license number or state ID number
- Your personal information, such as your full name, date of birth, gender, race and level of education
- Extensive information about the jobs you have held in the last 18 months, such as:
- Your employers’ names and their contact information
- The start and end dates of your past jobs
- Your untaxed gross earnings
- The reason(s) for your dismissal from work
- Data about any pensions, retirement claims and worker’s compensation
Note: Former members of the military, federal employees, self-employed workers and non-U.S. citizens will be required to submit additional data and documentation.
What do I do after I apply for unemployment benefits in Florida?
After you submit your online application for unemployment in Florida, you must complete several additional procedures in order to finalize the entire unemployment registration process. For instance, you must register with the state workforce agency (Employ Florida Marketplace), as you must be actively seeking employment in order to qualify for UI benefits. If you fail to complete this step, your unemployment benefits application will be denied.
When you file for unemployment in Florida, the department will promptly provide you with an estimate of your future benefits by mailing you the Wage Transcript and Determination notice. If you do not agree with the DEO calculations, you will be able to request a reconsideration of the department’s monetary determination within 20 days from the date of the notice.
Also, you may be informed by the DEO, either by phone, online or via standard mail, that you are required to submit additional documents and information to process your claim. Therefore, you must regularly visit your CONNECT profile or check for mail-in notices. A DEO adjudicator will review your application once you complete it and will determine whether you are eligible for UI benefits in Florida.
If you are not required to provide any further items and your unemployment EDD application was accepted, you will be able to request your first benefit payment through the CONNECT internet service. You will be scheduled to claim your first UI paycheck within two to three weeks.
How To Apply For Unemployment In Florida
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity has changed the term “unemployment compensation” to “Reemployment Assistance Benefits.” The message is clear. Florida is strongly enforcing the work search requirement and you will be required to provide proof of your job search activities when you submit for weekly payments. Here are some links to help you get a better understanding of what the guidelines are:
You will need to open an online account at the Florida DEO Connect website to file your initial claim. You can also file by telephone by calling 800-204-2418.
Filing Requirements and Documentation
To qualify for reemployment assistance, you must have an employment history going back eighteen months, a valid social security number, and Florida driver’s license or state ID. You’ll also need to provide the following when you make your initial claim:
- Name, current address, working phone number
- Exact dates of employment (first and last day)
- Earnings before taxes (Gross) for period stated above
- Reason for termination of employment
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) for your employer
The employer FEIN can be found on your W2 or 1099 tax form. You can proceed without it, but claims are likely to be delayed without this number. To ensure prompt processing to receive your benefits quickly, spend some time and find the FEIN before filing.
Calculating Your Weekly Payments
The amount of your reemployment assistance benefit check will be determined by a formula applied to your total earnings for the first four of your last five quarters of work. Your highest quarter in that period will be divided by 26 and you will receive the lower of that number or $275 a week, the Florida state maximum reemployment benefits payouts.
The maximum time period you can receive RAB payouts is twelve weeks and the maximum amount you can receive is $3300. There will be a “waiting week” in which you will not be paid, immediately following your initial claim, but that week does not apply to the maximum week requirements. There are no RAB extension plans available in the state of Florida.
Disability and TAA Education Programs
The federal government offers additional assistance if you are unable to return to work after your maximum RAB payments have expired. If you are disabled and unable to return, contact the Social Security Administration to ask about disability payments. You may want to look at this before you file a claim for RAB payments, since disability is not considered unemployment.
The United States Department of Labor offers a program called Trade Adjustment Assistance. If you’re looking to change professions and need additional education or training to do so, this is a good place to start. There are also a number of affordable online educational programs available from local colleges and universities.
If you are a former member of the U.S. military, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits through the Unemployment Compensation for Ex-servicemembers (UCX) program. The unemployment insurance program is administered by each state, as agents of the Federal government. There is no payroll deduction from your wages for unemployment insurance protection while you served in the military. Benefits are paid for by the various branches of the military.
Who Is Eligible for UCX?
In general, you may be eligible for Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Servicemembers if you meet all of the following criteria:
- Were on duty with a branch of the U.S. military, or a commissioned officer of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), during the base period of your claim
- Honorably discharged
- Completed the first full term of service for which you enlisted, or if a Reservist, completed 180 days of continuous active duty
- Meet all other state eligibility requirements
If you want to apply for this unemployment benefit, you must file from the state you reside in. All states will have different application requirements.
How Do I Apply for Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Servicemembers (UCX)?
This unemployment benefit is not standardized. Terms and conditions will vary depending on state law where you apply. The state will determine the protocols for applications and approval. You may be required to apply online, or you may have the option of a paper submission. In all cases, you should have copies of your D.D. Form 214 and Social Security card handy.
Some states may not allow you to be paid unemployment compensation if you draw retirement pay; others may reduce the amount of the unemployment benefit depending on the amount of compensation you receive as a result of military service.
Where Do I Apply for Unemployment Compensation After Leaving Military Service?
Your state’s employment office will have the necessary forms and instructions to apply for UCX.
If you need to locate your state employment office, the DoD official site CareerOneStop features a search tool that can help you find the one nearest you.
What You Should Know About UCX
This program can be challenging to locate on some state employment websites. It’s simpler to begin your search by typing “military unemployment” in the website’s search section where applicable. You should also download a copy of your state’s unemployment benefits handbook or similar publications that describe the state’s unemployment program in detail. In addition, you will likely find a special section that outlines programs for military members.
For example, the Illinois Unemployment Insurance Handbook has a special section on page 19 titled “U.S. Military Veterans,” which includes this information useful to anyone seeking unemployment compensation after military service:
“Your benefit rights will be determined by the law of the state in which you first file a claim for unemployment insurance and establish a benefit year after your last separation from active military service. To establish a benefit year, you must have had a certain amount of active service in the armed forces within the base period applicable to that benefit year.”
It’s important to note that if you make mistakes in applying for unemployment benefits, it can delay those benefits. If there is a hotline or other assistance available to you, it’s best to get help with your initial paperwork filing to ensure you get any benefits you are eligible for without a long wait.
VA Programs for Unemployed Vets
There are also vocational readiness and employment programs available to veterans, some of which may be offered for a limited time. These programs (commonly referred to as “VR&E “) are open to:
- transitioning servicemembers within six months prior to discharge from active duty.
- veterans within one year following discharge from active duty.
- any servicemember/veteran currently eligible for a VA education benefit.
- all current VA education beneficiaries.
To take advantage of these benefits, you must register by mail or via an eBenefits account and register there under the Vocational Readiness and Employment section (choose “Education and Career Counseling”).
To register by mail, complete VA Form 28-8832 and send it to the nearest VA Regional Office, Attention: Vocational Readiness and Employment.
Jim spent 22 years on active duty, climbing the ranks from Airman Basic to a decorated Air Force Major. Stationed all over the world, he held many high-level posts, including Chief of Foreign Military Sales at the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Jim earned his Ph.D. through the Montgomery Era GI Bill and spent 13 years teaching African Studies in Pennsylvania. Jim is also an award-winning travel writer.
With many people out of work, furloughed, or experiencing cuts to their hours, unemployment benefits are more important than ever. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has expanded unemployment insurance for Americans, loosening the rules for who is eligible for benefits, how much help you can get, and how long you can receive aid.
That means just about everyone who has lost their income because of the COVID-19 pandemic now qualifies for some form of unemployment insurance.
Even if you’re familiar with unemployment insurance, it’s worth catching up on the latest information. Below are some of the questions we’re seeing about unemployment insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How is coronavirus affecting the unemployment process?
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the federal government has loosened eligibility requirements allowing gig-workers, self-employed people, and those whose hours have been cut to receive unemployment compensation. Officials have also boosted benefits, both in the amount of compensation provided and the length of time you can receive benefits.
Unfortunately, lockdowns and stay-at-home initiatives have resulted in many businesses closing their doors—and leaving their employees without work. As a result, record numbers of Americans are applying for benefits. The $2 trillion coronavirus relief deal will help fund these additional needs, but the claims process will likely take longer for many applicants.
In short: more people are eligible for more benefits, and more people are applying every day.
While the rule changes were made by the federal government, state governments administer the benefits. You have to file for unemployment in the state where you live, and many state unemployment offices are overwhelmed by new applications. You can expect longer wait times, and it’s important to have all your information in order before you file a claim.
Before you Apply
Your first step is to submit an initial claim in order for DEW to determine if your circumstances meet the eligibility requirements of the Unemployment Insurance (UI) program. Filing a claim is the only way for eligibility to be determined.
In order to become eligible and remain eligible for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits, you must:
- Have lost your job through no fault of your own.
- Report any income earned during a claim week.
- Continue to actively search for work.
- Be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work during a claim week.
- Accept any suitable offer of work you receive.
Unemployment Insurance is a temporary program to ease the gap between unemployment and reemployment. It is not meant to replace earnings from a job. If you receive a job referral from our agency you must contact the employer, and you must accept any suitable offer of work. If you do not, you may disqualify yourself from UI and your benefits will be turned off.
Filing your claim will go faster if you have the following important information handy:
- Your Social Security number.
- Your work history for the past 18 months including:
- Employers’ business names,
- Employers’ addresses,
- Employers’ phone numbers and
- Your salary for each employer
- If you are not a U.S. citizen, your alien registration number and documentation.
- If you served in the military in the past 18 months, DD-214 Form (Member 4 copy).
- If you are a federal civilian employee, SF-50 (PDF) or SF-8 (PDF) Form.
- If you are filing from out-of-state, see “how to file an out of state claim”.
- Remember: You apply for Unemployment Insurance where your employer resides or where wages are earned and NOT where you have residence
Initial claims are filed online through the MyBenefits portal. Use our guides to learn more about using the portal. If you need further assistance call our toll-free number 1-866-831-1724 | Relay 711.
Step 1: Create your MyBenefits Portal Account
Watch the video on how to create an account in the MyBenefits portal.
Step 2: File a New Claim
Watch the File a New Claim Video on this page for instructions.
Before any benefits can be paid, an unpaid waiting period equivalent to one full week of unemployment benefits must be served. This requirement was waived by DEW in March 2020 due to the pandemic, however, the expiration of the state of emergency in June 2021 results in the waiting week being reinstated. Effective claim week ending June 19, 2021, claimants will be required to serve the unpaid waiting period.
Step 3: File Your Weekly Claim
Watch the File Your Weekly Claim Video on this page for instructions.
Step 4: Complete Two Weekly Job Searches in SCWOS
As of April 18, 2021, claimants are required to complete two weekly job searches in SCWOS (SC Works Online Services). Claimants are required to complete this each week, by law, in order to remain eligible for UI benefits.
Stopping UI Benefits Once You’re Re-Employed
When you become re-employed and earn more than your weekly benefit amount, you must end benefits.
Ending benefits is easy. Simply stop filing weekly claims. You may still be eligible for benefits if you are making less than your weekly benefit amount. Always report your weekly wages to ensure you are not obtaining benefits illegally. Unsure of what earnings to report weekly?
Need to know: It is your responsibility to report all wages earned and keep accurate records. DEW routinely audits weekly claims and if you are found to be overpaid for benefits, you will receive an overpayment notice. DEW employs several measures to recoup the outstanding debt, including wage withholding, intercepting state income tax returns and intercepting federal income tax returns.
Benefit Year
When you apply for unemployment benefits, you establish an active unemployment account for 52 weeks. These 12 months (which may be different than a calendar year) are referred to as a benefit year. You may receive benefits during the benefit year, provided you meet all eligibility requirements until your benefit year expires or you receive the total maximum benefit amount assigned to your claim, whichever comes first.
If you exhaust all of the available state and/or federal programs there are no additional benefits available to you within that benefit year. It’s important to understand, benefits will not automatically be available in a new benefit year. Under current law, in order to be eligible for UI benefits again, you must meet the following requirements:
✔️ You must earn at least eight (8) times your weekly benefit amount, from a new employer who pays into the UI Trust Fund.
✔️ You must be laid off by no fault of your own (meaning you didn’t quit or were fired).
✔️ And, you must re-apply for benefits, but only after you meet the above requirements and after your benefit year has ended.
Did your employer file for you?
If your employer filed for unemployment benefits on your behalf, you are still responsible to certify weekly. To learn more, read this document (PDF) about what you have to do to ensure you receive your benefits.
Do you need to file for unemployment benefits in Martin County, Florida? Do you have questions about your claim? You can find the information you need at the website of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, the state agency that administers unemployment benefits in Florida.
If you haven’t applied for unemployment benefits recently (or ever), you might think you have to go into the local unemployment office and file your claim in person. These days, however, it’s much easier – and often, required – to file your claim online or by phone.
On this page, you’ll find
- contact information for the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
- contact information for local job centers, which can help you with your job search and may offer assistance in filing for unemployment benefits, and
- links to our articles on how to file for benefits in Florida, eligibility for benefits in Florida, calculating your weekly benefit amount in Florida, and more.
Contacting the Unemployment Office in Martin County
If you want to file a claim for benefits, check on your claim, speak to a representative, or manage your unemployment benefits application, contact the
Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
URL: http://www.floridajobs.org/job-seekers-community-services
Main Phone Number:
Find phone numbers for offices that can help you answer various unemployment questions in Florida at the Help Center – Contact Us page of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity website.
Contacting Your Local Job Center
Local job centers — sometimes called One-Stop Career Centers or American Job Centers –can help you with cover letters, resumes, and job search efforts. Some job centers may provide assistance in filing for unemployment benefits. You may be required to register with a job center as part of your ongoing obligation to look for work while collecting benefits.
Contact your job center to find out about services and availability. Although some job centers provide unemployment services (for example, help in filing or managing your claim), others offer only job search assistance. And, some centers are closed, have limited hours, or are available only online due to the coronavirus pandemic. Call or email your local job center to find out about their offerings.
STUART: CareerSource Research Coast
Phone: 866-482-4473
Email: [email protected]
- Veterans Representative: [email protected]
- Business Representative: [email protected]
- Youth Services Contact: [email protected]
ADDRESS:
710 Southeast Central Parkway
Stuart, FL
8-4:30 Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri; Thurs 9-4:30
**Covid-19 Status: Closed to walk-ins -Open to the public by appointment only**
Last Updated: 3/5/21
How to Collect Unemployment Benefits in Martin County, Florida
Florida Unemployment Benefits at a Glance
Florida Benefits Eligibility
You are eligible for unemployment benefits in Florida if you are out of work through no fault of your own and you have earned at least a minimum amount in the time before you lost your job.
In Florida, you must have worked in at least two quarters of the base period and earned at least $3,400 during the entire base period. In addition, your earnings in the entire base period must be at least one-and-a-half times your earnings in the highest paid quarter.
Florida Unemployment Benefit Amount
In Florida, your weekly benefit amount will be one twenty-sixth of your earnings during the highest paid quarter of the base period.
The maximum weekly benefit in Florida is $275 per week.
How Long Your Unemployment Benefits Will Last in Florida
In Florida, the duration of benefits depends on the state’s unemployment rate when you apply. The maximum period for which you can receive benefits ranges from 12 to 23 weeks.
For More Information
If you have questions or need more information on unemployment benefits in Florida, check out our detailed articles on:
- how to apply for unemployment benefits in Florida
- information you’ll need when you file your claim
- who qualifies for unemployment benefits in Florida
- how to calculate your weekly benefit amount
- how long your benefits will last
- what you’ll need to do to keep collecting benefits, and
- what to do if your application for benefits is denied.
See all of our Florida unemployment articles here; just select Florida from the list on the page. We wish you all the best as you navigate your unemployment claim.
Can I Be Denied Unemployment Benefits After a Separation Agreement in .
Related Articles
- Can I Be Denied Unemployment Benefits After a Separation Agreement in Pennsylvania?
- Can I Draw Partial Unemployment in Texas?
- Florida Severance Pay Laws
- New Jersey Short-Term Disability Benefits
The Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation administers the Florida Unemployment Compensation Law. Unemployed workers and part-time employees who meet the state’s eligibility requirements can receive up to 26 weeks of benefits within one benefit year. The maximum amount available to claimants is $275 weekly as of June 2011. The Unemployment Compensation Program requires the agency to reduce an applicant’s weekly benefits for part-time work.
Eligibility Requirements
The Florida Unemployment Compensation Law requires that all applicants meet monetary and nonmonetary eligibility requirements. The agency will deny benefits to claimants who are not working because they were terminated for intentionally violating their employers’ established office policies, were excessively tardy or absent without good cause, or were terminated for grossly underperforming. Similarly, an employee who voluntarily quit without justifiable cause is ineligible for unemployment benefits. Justified reasons for quitting include illness or military spousal relocations. Additionally, claimants must look for work each week they file for benefits and accept all suitable job offers.
Short Time Compensation Program
The Florida Short Time Compensation Program (STC) allows employers to participate in a voluntary program if they experience temporary financial hardships. The program allows employers to avoid paying higher unemployment taxes by reducing the number of employees eligible to receive unemployment benefits. Instead of temporarily or permanently laying off their employees, employers can participate in the voluntary program to reduce their weekly payroll responsibilities. Under the program, employers must reduce their employees’ weekly hours for at least 10 percent of their staff, experience a temporary financial slowdown and submit a certification and plan application with the Agency for Workforce Innovation. An employer must reduce hours by 10 percent to 40 percent from each employee’s normally scheduled weekly hours.
STC Weekly Benefits
The state calculates an STC employee’s weekly benefits by totaling her benefits by the number of reduced hours on a weekly basis. For example, if she worked 40 hours before her employer’s participation in the STC program, and she is only working 32 hours after participation, then her weekly benefit allowance is multiplied by the reduction percentage on a prorated basis. STC claimants are also eligible for up to 26 weeks of benefits during one claim year. However, if her employer reduces her hours by more than the 40 percent limit, she qualifies for full or partial unemployment under the non-STC program, and she must register for available work.
Partial Unemployment
Claimants working part-time in Florida can continue receiving benefits while working for new employers, even when they are not participating in the STC program. The state limits them to part-time work where weekly wages are less than their weekly benefits. Full-time claimants are ineligible for unemployment benefits.
Considerations
Since Florida laws can frequently change, do not use this information as a substitute for legal advice. Seek advice through an attorney licensed to practice law in Florida.
Florida Unemployment Benefits, Amount, Services & Filing
Related Articles
- Florida Unemployment Benefits, Amount, Services & Filing
- Statute of Limitations for Contesting a Will in Pennsylvania
- Reasons for Denial of Unemployment Benefits in Illinois
- The State of Florida Statute of Limitations on Inheritance
Unemployment benefits help keep families and individuals from living on the streets after losing a job. In a job market with decreasing opportunities, it can take an extended period of time for an unemployed individual to find reliable work. Florida, like other states, has a workforce department to oversee unemployment compensation and benefit payments to eligible individuals.
What is an Unemployment Compensation Overpayment?
When an unemployment compensation beneficiary or the Florida Department of Labor makes an error, either intentionally or accidentally, in the unemployment reports system, software will flag the account for possible overpayment of unemployment compensation. Overpayment of unemployment compensation means that the beneficiary was given more money than the Florida Department of Labor should have allotted. Overpayment occurs when the beneficiary neglects to claim additional financial resources or income, like temporary wages earned during a claim week, or when a Florida Department of Labor employee incorrectly enters financial information into the unemployment compensation computing system.
Determination and Notification of Overpayment
The Florida State Department of Labor computerized system will notify an account specialist if overpayment is suspected. This process causes a stop payment to halt any unemployment compensation payment due to the beneficiary. The account specialist will then review the case. If they determine an overpayment has occurred, notification will be sent to the beneficiary who then has an allotted period of time to appeal the case or pay back the overpayment determination.
Weekly Benefit Claims During Overpayment Proceedings.
Although a stop payment is issued for all Florida Unemployment benefits during an investigation of overpayment, the unemployment beneficiary should continue to search for jobs and submit unemployment claims each week until the situation is resolved. This will allow the beneficiary to obtain unemployment compensation after the overpayment proceedings have concluded and the beneficiary is determined not to be at fault.
Right to Appeal Unemployment Overpayment Judgment
If the state of Florida determines that the beneficiary has received an overpayment of unemployment benefits, the beneficiary has the right to appeal the determination. The written request for appeal must be mailed or completed online within twenty days of the Department of Labor’s postmarked date of determination. An appeal means the beneficiary will have the right to a hearing, and if necessary the beneficiary will also have the right to appeal the hearing determination only once with the Florida Unemployment Appeals Commission.
More In File
- Individuals
- Who Should File
- How to File
- When to File
- Where to File
- Your Information
- Students
- Employees
- Parents
- Military
- Seniors & Retirees
- Businesses and Self-Employed
- Charities and Nonprofits
- International Taxpayers
- Governmental Liaisons
- Federal State Local Governments
- Indian Tribal Governments
- Tax Exempt Bonds
Unemployment compensation is taxable income. If you receive unemployment benefits, you generally must include the payments in your income when you file your federal income tax return.
Check If Your Unemployment Compensation Is Taxable
Some types of unemployment compensation are taxed differently based on the program paying the benefits. Use our Interactive Tax Assistant tool to see if your unemployment compensation is taxable.
Report Unemployment Compensation
You should receive Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments, showing the amount of unemployment compensation paid to you during the year.
To report unemployment compensation on your 2021 tax return:
- Enter the unemployment compensation amount from Form 1099-G Box 1 on line 7 of Schedule 1, (Form 1040), Additional Income and Adjustments to Income PDF
- Enter the amount of tax withheld from Form 1099-G Box 4 on line 25b of your Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR
- Attach Schedule 1 to your return
If you received unemployment compensation but didn’t get Form 1099-G in the mail, find the amount of your payments on your state unemployment agency website.
Exclusion for Tax Year 2020 Only
You can exclude unemployment compensation of up to $10,200 for tax year 2020 under The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. See Exclusion of up to $10,200 of Unemployment Compensation.
Find more information:
Pay Taxes on Unemployment Compensation
To pay tax on unemployment compensation, you can:
- Submit Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request to the payer to have federal income tax withheld or
- Make quarterly estimated tax payments
Not sure which is best for you?
Report Unemployment Fraud
If you receive Form 1099-G showing the wrong amount of unemployment compensation, contact your state unemployment agency to correct it. If you believe someone fraudulently collected unemployment payments using your information, take these steps to report it and protect yourself.
This page provides step-by-step guidance on filing your unemployment insurance claim.
WHAT DO I NEED TO START MY APPLICATION?
District employees may file for unemployment compensation at www.dcnetworks.org. Please note that DOES no longer accepts unemployment insurance (UI) claims by phone through the Contact Center. To submit a UI claim for the first time, please visit the DC Networks site. The agency has adopted this change as a security measure to protect your private information. Our online services provide additional layers of protection to ensure that all personal details provided to DOES are safe and uncompromised. Please view the End of Initial Claims Via Contact Center fact sheet to learn more.
Please read the Ten Things You Should Know fact sheet to learn more about filing an unemployment insurance claim.
When you’re applying for benefits, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Social security number;
- Most recent employer’s name, address, phone number, and dates of employment;
- Alien Registration Number, if you are not a U.S. Citizen;
- DD214, if you are ex-military;
- Standard Form 8 or Standard Form 50, if you are a former federal employee;
- Severance pay information (only applicable if you did or will receive severance pay);
- Pension information (only applicable if you are receiving a pension payment)
- Evidence of a public health emergency impact (if applying due to the COVID-19 public health emergency). Documentation may include:
- A letter documenting a voluntary request or involuntary order to isolate or quarantine from a doctor or local health official
- A note from your doctor or medical records office recommending isolation or quarantine
- A self-determination that the Department of Health’s quarantine guidance applies to you
To receive unemployment insurance, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be unemployed through no fault of your own
- Be able, available, and actively looking for work
- Earned enough wages to file a claim
More information can be found in our Overview of UI Benefits webpage https://unemployment.dc.gov/page/overview-ui-benefits.
WHERE DO I FILE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE?
Here are the steps to file a claim for unemployment insurance, here are the steps to file a claim:
- Go to www.dcnetworks.org www.dcnetworks.organd click the tab “Claim Unemployment Benefits.”
- On the “Unemployment Insurance Service Center for Claimants” page, click “File for Benefits.”
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click “File Your Claim Online.”
- Answer the questions with accurate information to complete the claim filing process.
You will need to provide proof of identity to complete your application. You must provide original documents or notarized copies of a government-issued photo I.D. and your social security card. You may also be required to provide other documents that contain your name and current mailing address. You will receive instructions by phone or an email that includes the list of documents you may use as proof of identity.
After submitting your application, take a look at our What’s Next? document to see the next steps in your UI claim process.
HOW DO I FILE MY WEEKLY CERTIFICATIONS?
To receive unemployment benefits, you must certify that you are able to continue receiving benefits each week, starting on the Sunday after you file your initial claim for unemployment benefits. To certify for benefits, you must file a weekly continued claim form online at www.dcnetworks.org, or by calling at 202-724-7000.
Filing your claim form online or by phone is the fastest way to certify for benefits. If you are not able to file online or by phone, you may mail your form or file at any American Job Center located throughout the District.
The latest you should file your claim is seven (7) calendar days after the week-ending date on the continued claim form. If you fail to file your weekly claim within seven (7) calendar days after the week-ending date on the form, you may not receive your benefit because you did not follow reporting instructions. The system will not allow you to file a weekly claim certification for a benefit payment if the last week you claimed ended more than 14 days earlier. When this happens, you must reapply to “reactivate” or “reopen” your claim.
For help with answering the certification questions, or for basic information about weekly claims, please read our Instructions for Completing the Continued Claim Form.
For more information on work search requirements and how to comply, please reference our Work Search Requirements FAQs.
HOW DO I PROVE MY IDENTITY?
The District has an Identity Verification & Authentication security feature in the online application. If your information does not match or you do not answer the multiple-choice questions correctly, then you may not receive your benefits.
To clear this issue, you must provide the District of Columbia’s Office of Unemployment Compensation with official documents to prove your identity, including original documents or copies of the following:
- Government-issued photo I.D.;
- Social security card;
- Other documents that have your name and current mailing address.
A claims examiner will call or email you to ask you to submit the identity documents to a secure DOES email address: [email protected] . DOES currently does NOT require a notarized document because of the COVID-19 emergency.
Once our office receives your documents, DOES will make a decision regarding your proof of identity. Benefit payments will not be paid until the Office of Unemployment Compensation confirms your identity.
If you are not a resident of the District of Columbia, you can fax or email copies of your identity documents. A claims examiner will either call or email you with instructions to explain the process.
HOW DO I CONTINUE RECEIVING MY BENEFITS?
Once your claim has been approved, you must meet the requirements below to keep receiving your benefits:
- Be unemployed through no fault of your own.
- Report all earnings from work, including self-employment, on your weekly claim for benefits.
- Currently receive or apply for unemployment benefits only from DC and not another state.
- Be available for work and be physically able to work.
- Claimants must be able to work and be available for work to qualify for regular UI claims. PUA provides benefits for those unavailable or unable to work because of COVID-related reasons listed in the CARES Act.
- ‘)” data-event=”social share” data-info=”Pinterest” aria-label=”Share on Pinterest”>
- ‘)” data-event=”social share” data-info=”Reddit” aria-label=”Share on Reddit”>
- ‘)” data-event=”social share” data-info=”Flipboard” aria-label=”Share on Flipboard”>
Related
- Do SSI Payments for My Child Affect My Unemployment?
- Can You Draw Unemployment if You Are Not Living in the State Where You Were Laid Off?
- Can I File for Unemployment for Being Laid Off From a Second Job?
- Can You Collect Unemployment if You Lost Your Job and Have a DBA Business?
- How to Apply for Unemployment When Unemployed From a Family Business
Whether you were hired as a temporary employee or as a permanent employee doesn’t affect your right to unemployment compensation. The same qualifications for unemployment compensation apply equally to both conditions. Other factors related to temporary employment, however, may make a difference between being eligible for unemployment compensation or not. Either way, determining whether you qualify can be complicated.
Temporary or Permanent: Does It Matter?
Here are two different employment situations:
- You’re hired by XYZ corporation to fill in during the Christmas rush. Things go well for you at the company, and it keeps you on for a few weeks into January to help handle returns, but by the end of January, you are let go. You’ve worked a total of 11 weeks.
- You’re hired by ABC corporation to be an assistant manager. The position is permanent. Nevertheless, the economy slumps and ABC lays off its recent hires. You’ve worked a total of 11 weeks.
In these two situations, whether you qualify for unemployment compensation depends upon several factors – none of them having to do with whether you were hired as a permanent employee or a temp. The length of time you worked does bear on your eligibility, but it’s only one of several factors. In some circumstances, if you’re unemployed after 11 weeks, you’re eligible for unemployment compensation. In other circumstances, you aren’t. Eligibility depends on several factors that include the state you work in, your work history over a base period, how much you earned during that base period, and why you’re no longer employed.
General Rules That Do and Don’t Apply
It is useful to know the general rules for eligibility, but each state has so many unique requirements that making useful generalizations is difficult. At some point, to understand whether or not you’re eligible, you’ll need to read the eligibility rules for the state you work in. However, it helps to know the basic relevant considerations. The most important of them is the concept of a base year.
The Base Year
Every state requires that to be eligible for unemployment you have to have worked a minimum length of time in the base year. The base year is the employment year that qualifies you for unemployment. You can figure out your base year by picking up a calendar and counting backward five complete quarters from the day you became unemployed. Let’s say you’re unemployed on September 15, 2017, in the middle of the third quarter that runs from July 1 through September. Since you’re counting complete quarters only, you ignore the third quarter and begin counting back for five quarters, beginning with the second quarter of 2017_._ Five quarters takes you back to the first quarter of 2016. That’s where your base year begins. Now you count forward four quarters. Your base year ends on the last day of the fourth quarter of 2016.
Every subsequent qualification for unemployment compensation has to do with the base year: how much you earned and how long you worked during the base year and some additional twists and turns that apply in some states and not in others.
How Much of the Time Were You Employed in the Base Year?
Most states – but not all – base eligibility on the number of quarters you were employed in the base year. Texas, which is typical in this regard, requires that you worked in at least two quarters of the base year. Most states that determine eligibility by length of time worked have the same two-quarter requirement. However, not all states base eligibility on the length of time worked in the base year and among those that do, the majority impose other requirements as well. Washington State, for example, requires that you have worked a total of 680 hours during the base year; which quarter or quarters you worked them in doesn’t matter.
How Much Did You Earn in the Base Year?
Here’s where it starts to get complicated. Washington State requires that in your highest earning quarter of the base year, you earned at least $1,300 or alternatively that in your highest earning quarter you earned at least $900 and that your total earnings for the year were at least 1.25 times your highest quarter earnings.
In Texas, your earnings during the base year must be at least 37 times your weekly benefit. That benefit, in turn, is the total you earned in your highest earnings quarter divided by 25. Each state has its own rules. To find the specific requirements for your state, do an internet search for “[Your State] unemployment compensation qualifications” or “[Your State] unemployment insurance benefits.” One or both of these queries will get you the info you need.
Other Qualifications
Other qualifications are relatively straightforward. If you voluntarily quit your job, you’re ineligible for benefits unless you can show you quit for “good cause.” For example, if you were sexually harassed by a supervisor, most states would consider that good cause. Even so, since good cause is defined differently in each state, the only way to know for sure is to read your state’s unemployment regulations.
If you were fired arbitrarily because your supervisor didn’t like you, you’re probably eligible. If you were guilty of minor misconduct that another employee who was not fired was also guilty of, you may or may not be eligible for benefits. Eligibility in situations like this may eventually be determined in an Unemployment Compensation Board hearing where you and your former employer must appear and testify.
If you were fired for gross misconduct, you’re probably not eligible. If you were fired for negligence, whether you’re eligible for benefits will depend upon whether the negligence was deliberate. “Deliberate” in this context is a legal term and is another area where the final determination of your eligibility may be determined in an Unemployment Compensation Board hearing.
If you receive a suspicious email from the DC Department of Employment Services or DC Networks, do not click the link and do not share any requested information. You can find more information and all of the ways District workers and employers can report and prevent fraud on our website HERE.
On September 4, 2021, in accordance with federal law, several federal unemployment benefits offered through the American Rescue Plan Act ended. If you received one of the following benefits, this notice is important for you.
The following benefits expired:
- Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
- Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC)
- Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC)
- Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC)
Please read the descriptions of expired federal unemployment benefits or view the End of Benefits FAQs to learn more about the conclusion of these programs.
To help explain accessing your unemployment benefits we have created a quick guide:
Our agency is committed to supporting claimants through benefits and workforce development opportunities for re-employment. DOES offers the following resources to DC residents:
- American Job Center helps residents find a new job, transition into something new, expand their skills, or explore a new career.
- DC Infrastructure Academy trains, screens, and recruits residents to fulfill the needs of the infrastructure industry and infrastructure jobs.
- DC Career Connections is a work readiness program that provides out-of-school and unemployed young adults with opportunities to gain valuable work experience.
- Project Empowerment provides unemployed residents with opportunities to grow in education, training, and subsidized employment placements.
All you need to know about claiming unemployment benefits in Florida, contact details, when and how to contact the Department of Economic Opportunity.
As of September this year, Florida’s unemployment rate fell to 7.6% according to US Department of Labor figures, which was 0.3% lower than the national average and a drop of more than 6% since its highest level in decades in April this year.
The leap to 13.8% in April 2020 was all the more shocking after the record low of 2.8% in January. Florida’s previous highest peak in decades was January of 2011 of 11.3%, as the effects of the 2008 global recession took hold.
The Department is now accepting applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance for residents in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton counties. To file a DUA claim visit https://t.co/zgZar35V4X. pic.twitter.com/YclUsIY8OD
The covid-19 pandemic has wrought havoc on the US economy since its outbreak in January, and last week there was an unexpected surge nationwide in new claims for unemployment support.
BREAKING: U.S. jobless claims reach 898,000 as layoffs remain high 7 months after virus struck economy. https://t.co/kwmWWQCqxY
If you’re one of the many Florida residents still struggling with layoffs, here’s how to check your eligibility and how to claim for benefits.
How to start a new claim for unemployment benefits in Florida
In Florida, claiming for unemployment benefits is done through the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) website, and it’s in a section called Reemployment Assistance Claim.
The process takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete and must be finished within 72 hours of when you first start the application, or you will have to start over again.
What documents do I need to make my claim?
- Social Security number.
- Driver’s License or State ID number.
- Employment information for the last 18 months for each employer.
- Employer identification number, also known as FEIN number, if available. This number can be found on your W2 or 1099 tax form.
- Employer name (name on pay stub), address, and phone number.
- First and last day of work.
- Gross earnings (before taxes) covering the last 18 months.
- Reason for separation from work.
If one of the following criteria applies to you, have the following additional information available:
- Not a U.S. Citizen: Alien Registration Number or other work authorization form.
- Military employee: A copy of your DD-214 Member 4. If you do not have a Member 4, a copy of your Member 2-7 may be used.
- Federal employee: SF-8 or SF-50.
- Union member: Union name, hall number, and phone number.
What funds are available in Florida for the unemployed during coronavirus?
You may be eligible for any or all of the following:
- State reemployment assistance.
- Pandemic emergency unemployment compensation.
- Extended benefits.
- Pandemic unemployment assistance.
For more details on deadlines, maximum and minimum funds and eligibility, see Florida DEO’s fact sheet.
Is Florida giving extended unemployment benefit?
Yes. The DEO website states that under the CARES Act, Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) is available for eligible applicants who are currently receiving regular state Reemployment Assistance benefits.
FPUC is an additional $600 distributed weekly in addition to state Reemployment Assistance benefits. Florida DEO is able to issue the additional $600 payments in multiple ways. If you are eligible and have previously provided a bank account in the CONNECT system, you will receive a direct deposit to your account. If you did not provide your bank account, you will receive a check to the mailing address provided on your account.
How do I check on my claim?
Florida DEO have included a handy video to help you navigate your inbox which holds all your correspondence relating to your claim.
Contact details for Florida DEO
If you’re unable to resolve your request with the fact sheets and links here, contact the Florida DEO:
- By phone: 1-800-204-2418 between 8am and 5pm on weekdays.
- By mail: Department of Economic Opportunity, 107 East Madison Street, Caldwell Building, Tallahassee, FL 32399-4120
- To speak to a Creole or Spanish speaker or use translation services, call the Customer Service Contact Center: 1-833-FL-APPLY (1-833-352-7759) weekdays 7:30 am to 6:30 pm
- People who need assistance filing a claim online because of legal reasons, computer illiteracy, language barriers, or disabilities may call 1-833-FL-APPLY (1-833-352-7759).
For the latest on coronavirus in the US as it happens, follow our dedicated rolling feed.
The Department of Labor has expanded eligibility for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, and it will allow those already on unemployment to keep their benefits if they turn down jobs due to COVID safety concerns. The changes are retroactive, so you could qualify for a nice lump sum in late March. Here’s what you need to know.
Expanded eligibility
Created as part of the CARES Act, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program temporarily expands unemployment insurance eligibility to self-employed workers, freelancers, independent contractors, and part-time workers impacted by the pandemic. To qualify, you have to state under penalty of perjury that you’re available for work and that you’re unemployed due to a COVID-related situation.
Following a directive from President Biden last month, the Department of Labor has clarified and expanded PUA eligibility for workers under the following scenarios:
- Workers who are already receiving unemployment benefits but turn down work with a potential employer because they don’t comply with local or state COVID safety standards such as social distancing, mask wearing or personal protective equipment.
- Workers who have been laid off or had hours reduced because their employer has closed or partially closed due to COVID.
- School workers without a contract who have no assurance of continued pay when schools are closed due to the pandemic.
Father’s Day CBD Bundle
Send Dad flowers
Well, send him a bundle of calming CBD products made from USDA-certified organic, Kentucky-grown, whole-flower hemp oil, at least.
The benefits will be retroactive , and will apply as if they had been included from the beginning of the PUA program. However, individuals filing their first PUA claim after Dec. 27, 2020, are limited to weeks of unemployment beginning on or after Dec. 6, 2020.
Considering that those on unemployment receive a $300 weekly federal top-up to their state benefits which average about $320 a week , the retroactive aid could result in a large lump sum payment near the end of March (the Department of Labor says that state agencies will need a few weeks to implement the changes). For first time filers, the first payment would amount to about four months of benefits.
“Until now, many workers have faced a devil’s bargain, risk coronavirus infection, or choose some level of safety and live without income support,” says Suzi Levine, principal deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training, in an interview with Reuters .
How to apply
You’ll need to file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked (search by state here ). Depending on the state, claims may be filed in person, by telephone, or online.
Florida signs onto federal unemployment program
The program would get more funding for those unemployed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) will submit Florida’s application to participate in the Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) Program.
The program will give Floridians who have been unemployed due to the coronavirus pandemic temporary benefits of $300 per week.
“On behalf of Floridians who are continuing to face challenges finding employment, I would like to thank President Trump for providing additional funding while they get back on their feet,” said Governor DeSantis. “We appreciate the opportunity to provide this temporary assistance through the Lost Wages Assistance program.”
A theme park roundtable was held at Universal Orlando Resort on Wednesday
Governor Ron DeSantis held the roundtable.
According to a press release from DeSantis’ office, the program, authorized by a memorandum from President Trump, provides benefits for those who are eligible for Reemployment Assistance for weeks of unemployment ending on or after Aug. 1, 2020.
Florida’s application still needs to be approved.
To be eligible, you must currently be receiving at least $100 in an approved Reemployment Assistance program weekly benefit amount and must certify that they are unemployed or partially unemployed due to COVID-19.
Payments will be retroactive to August 1, 2020 pending approval.
“Floridians who are currently receiving Reemployment Assistance benefits, are unemployed or partially unemployed due to COVID-19 and are currently receiving at least $100 per week in Reemployment Assistance benefits will be eligible to receive the additional $300 benefits from the LWA funds funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).”
This includes individuals receiving:
- State Reemployment Assistance, including Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) and Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service members (UCX);
- Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC);
- Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA);
- Extended Benefits (EB);
- Short-Time Compensation (STC);
- Trade Readjustment Allowance (TRA); and
- Payments under the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program.
No additional application will be necessary and eligible Floridians will receive their LWA benefits the same week they receive their weekly Reemployment Assistance benefits.
“DEO highly recommends that Reemployment Assistance claimants select direct deposit as their means of receiving benefits to ensure payments are received as quickly as possible.”
Funding for this program comes from FEMA disaster relief funds. It’s important to note that funding could end at any time “and is contingent upon a required state match based on state re-employment assistance paid out during the period.”
States should be able to receive approximately three weeks’ worth of benefits upon approval, with additional weekly approval being granted on a weekly basis, depending on the remaining balance of the fund.
If you’ve been hurt on the job or have suffered an illness due to workplace conditions, you’ll likely have to miss some time from work while you recover. Perhaps you’ve already made a full recovery, or you can work with lighter duties, but you can no longer work in your previous position. Whatever the case, it’s natural to question whether you can receive workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance at the same time. Whether or not you can receive both types of benefits will depend on your medical condition and ability to work.
The experienced southern Illinois personal injury lawyers at Jerome, Salmi & Kopis, LLC focus on workers’ compensation, personal injury, and social security disability cases. Contact us today to request a free case evaluation.
You Cannot Collect Unemployment for a Total Disability
If you are receiving workers’ compensation benefits for a temporary total disability (TTD) or a permanent total disability (PTD), you’re likely not eligible to receive unemployment insurance as well. TTD and PTD workers’ compensation benefits are intended to replace the majority of your income when you can’t work due to an injury or illness acquired on the job. However, unemployment insurance is meant to replace a portion of your income if you have lost your job but are still able to work and are actively looking for employment.
Unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation have different purposes, so you generally cannot collect unemployment insurance if you suffer from a total disability. Total disability benefits from a work injury are to be provided by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
The Law in Illinois and Missouri
Some states will allow you to collect workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance at the same time. In these states, the amount of workers’ compensation you receive is generally reduced by the amount of unemployment insurance you’re receiving. The intention of this is to ensure you aren’t receiving more in benefits than what you earned while working.
Unfortunately, for workers in Missouri, the news is not much better. The Missouri Revise Statutes specifically address this issue and state that it’s not permitted to receive workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance at the same time. As such, if you’re collecting workers’ compensation in Missouri, you are automatically barred from receiving unemployment insurance, as well.
Receiving Unemployment Insurance After Recovery
During your recovery, you may reach a stage known as maximum medical improvement (MMI). This is the point where you’re not going to get any better, but your condition also is not going to get worse. If your doctor determines that your condition will leave you with lasting mental or physical limitations, but you can still perform some employment duties, you may be awarded permanent partial disability or a workers’ compensation settlement. In this case, if you can’t return to your old employment position, but you plan on continuing to look for new employment, you can apply for unemployment benefits.
Even if you make a full recovery and you don’t suffer from a permanent disability, you may not be able to return to your old job. While it’s against the law for your employer to fire you because you file a claim for workers’ compensation, they are also under no obligation to provide you with special treatment while you’re recovering from a temporary disability. If you’ve been fired after reaching MMI, in some cases you can apply for unemployment insurance.
You Can Receive Unemployment if Workers’ Compensation is Disputed
It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to deny workers’ compensation claims, and your employer may dispute your claim too, so their insurance premiums don’t increase. When that’s the case, you can apply for unemployment insurance while your workers’ compensation claim is under dispute. Still, even in this situation, it’s important to understand that the state may recover unemployment payments paid out once you resolve your workers’ comp case.
If your workers’ comp claim is denied, it’s imperative that you work with a workers’ compensation lawyer in Illinois or Missouri. An attorney will know how to appeal the decision and will hold both the workers’ compensation insurance company and your employer accountable for paying the benefits you deserve.
Call Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
If you’ve been denied workers’ compensation for your workplace illness or injury, or you need help applying, our workers’ compensation lawyers can provide the sound legal advice you need. At the Law Office of Jerome Salmi Kopis, LLC, we know applying for workers’ compensation isn’t always easy, but we also know how to overcome the challenges these claims present. Contact us today at (618) 726-2222 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys.
2 Answers
To apply for unemployment benefits, all one has to do is simply visit the local unemployment office and fill in some forms and provide a few personal details. To know more about filing for unemployment in the state of Florida, go to the given link –
www.unemploymentoffice.net.
One can even file for unemployment without going personally to the unemployment office. In several states, unemployed persons can avail of unemployment benefits online itself, or even over the phone. For instance, for New York, one can visit the web site to file new unemployment claims, get weekly benefits and track the status of a present compensation claim.
However, before filing an unemployment claim, it would be advisable to check with one’s respective state unemployment office to decide on the best possible means of opening a claim.
- Thank Writer
- Comment
- Blurt
Well its not that difficult to file for unemployment benefits in Florida, all you have to do is fill in an online form which is available on web-sites like www.floridajobs.org, www.dol.gov/dol/location.html., etc.
Unemployment benefits basically are compensations given by the government to people who are unemployed. It may be based on a mandatory pera-governmental insurance scheme. It mainly depends on the jurisdiction and the financial status of the individual applying for the unemployment benefits. Unemployment benefits are normally given to people, who are registered for unemployment, on the conditions that the person is seeking a job.
In countries like Australia, social security benefits which also cover unemployment benefits are financed via the income tax system. In New Zealand there is no stipulated age to receive unemployment benefits.
- Thank Writer
- Comment
- Blurt
You might also like.
Unemployment
The Missouri Division of Employment Security is the one that deals with payment of the essential unemployment.
Unemployment
Since Boston is city falling under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, procedure to file a given Unemployment.
Unemployment
I need to start applying for unemployment to receive benefits like right away.
Unemployment
Yes you can file for unemployment in the state of Florida online. I am giving you the web link where.
Unemployment
Unemployment benefits can be transferred between states but it is good to file your claim in the new.
Unemployment
Right now, approximately 12.5 million are unemployed in the US, with the highest percentages in service-providing.
Unemployment
You can find out what your WBA will be with this unemployment calculator at the link below. Florida’s.
Unemployment
I think its 26 weeks.
Unemployment
As of june 2009, you can collect up to 79 weeks of benefits.
Unemployment
Unless you have some kind of proof as to why you had to quit, no state unemployment benefits will be.
Your Compliance Partner Since 1989
1-800-817-7678
Assistance to Separated Workers
As we confront the many challenges brought about by the Coronavirus (COVID-19), federal and state lawmakers have been working tirelessly to minimize the financial hardships placed on workers who have lost their jobs as a result of the disease outbreak. Expanding the availability of unemployment compensation (UC) is one way to assist workers. So that workers can easily access those benefits, employers are now required to provide employees with notice of the availability of UC at the time of separation.
Legislative Background
Employer notice to employees of the availability of UC and the application process at the time of separation is a new procedure. Requiring employers to provide this notification is one of the conditions placed on states to share in federal emergency grants available to states to administer and pay UC benefits due to the heavy demand created by the COVID-19 health emergency. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) appropriated $1 billion in federal funds for this purpose. The Emergency Unemployment Compensation Stabilization and Access Act of 2020 (“EUISAA”), included in the FFCRA at Division D, sets out the requirements to receive the federal funding.
State Requirements
Federal funds are allocated to states in two separate allotments. To receive funds from Allotment I, the EUISSA places three conditions on grant recipients: (1) the state must require employers to provide notification of the availability of UC to employees at the time of separation, (2) the state must ensure that applications for benefits and assistance be accessible in at least two of the following mediums: in-person, phone or online and (3) the state must notify applicants when an application is received and is being processed and, if an application is unable to be processed, provide information about steps the applicant can take to ensure successful processing of the application. (42 U.S.C. § 1103(h)(1)(C)(i)). A state is eligible for Allotment II funds provided the state has: (1) expressed its commitment to maintain and strengthen access to the UC system and (2) taken steps to ease eligibility requirements and access to UC, including temporarily waiving work search requirements and the waiting week, and non-charging employers impacted by COVID-19 or public health order. (42 U.S.C. § 1103(h)(1)(C)(ii)).
Employer Notification to Employees of Availability of Unemployment Compensation
The U.S. Department of Labor has developed a model notice complying with the requirement that employers notify employees of the availability of UC upon separation. The model notice informs employees of:
- The availability of UC benefits and when to file a claim;
- Contact information for assistance with filing a UC claim;
- Information that must be provided to process the claim:
- Full legal name;
- Social Security Number; and,
- Authorization to work (if not a U.S. Citizen or resident);
- The methods of filing a UC claim by phone or online; and
- Contact information for questions about the status of a claim.
Guidance from the US DOL (UIPL 13-20) indicates that employers can provide the UC notification by letter, email, text message or flyer given or sent to the separated worker.
States are implementing the federal notification requirement by executive order, amending law, or issuing emergency rules that require employers to provide separated employees with the described notification of the state’s UC program. To facilitate compliance, many states have released UC notification forms that employers may use to provide notification to separated employees, which includes information specific to filing UC claims in their state. Other states have directed employers to develop a state-specific notification based the federal model. The U.S. DOL has clarified that the UC poster a state may require employers to post in the workplace is insufficient for this purpose. Notice must be provided individually and at the time of separation.
Employers are encouraged to verify that they are providing proper UC notification to employees at the time of separation. Need help locating your state’s notification requirements or notification form? Give us a call. We will be happy to guide you.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented number of Florida workers to experience layoffs, reduced hours and furloughs.
While the Florida unemployment program was initially overwhelmed by the high volume of new applicants, the state is making frequent updates to the program and its rules to ensure all Floridians can access economic relief during this difficult time.
New changes to the program include:
- Creating a new mobile-friendly website for online applications
- Waiving the one-week delay for payments, the work search requirement and the work registration requirement
- Extending federal benefits to self-employed workers, contractors and gig economy workers
- Offering paper applications to Floridians without internet access
Many people are facing lengthy wait times while filing for unemployment benefits or contacting the Reemployment Assistance Program, but the state is using every agency and resource available to get Floridians the assistance they need as soon as possible.
Updated Website for Online Unemployment Applications
Due to the staggering number of new unemployment claims submitted to CONNECT, Florida’s website for processing online applications, many applicants experienced errors and glitches that prevented them from filing successfully.
To address this problem, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) has launched a new unemployment website that streamlines the application process. It also provides a much better experience for mobile users applying on their smartphone or tablet.
Early reviews of the new website indicate that users are not experiencing the same errors and glitches affecting the CONNECT website.
If you have any issues during the online application process, review the DEO’s list of frequently asked questions. The state has updated the list with questions about applying for benefits during the COVID-19 crisis.
Florida Now Accepting Paper Applications
With public libraries closed, unemployed workers may not have access to a computer to file an online application. If you can’t access a computer or mobile device with internet access, you can now mail in a paper application for Florida unemployment assistance.
FedEx is assisting with this process by offering free printing and mailing options for paper applications at more than 100 stores statewide.
You can visit FedEx to print and send out your paper application. You should complete your form using blue or black ink and mail it to:
Tallahassee, FL 32314-5350
Keep in mind that paper applications will take longer to process than online applications. If you already completed an unemployment application through the CONNECT website and your application is pending, do not submit an additional paper application.
Governor Waives One-Week Payment Delay and Work Search Requirement
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has waived the mandatory delay that prevented applicants from receiving benefits during the first week of their unemployment. In addition, DeSantis dropped the requirements to contact at least five potential employers per week and complete work registration on the Employ Florida website.
You still need to log into the Reemployment Assistance website every two weeks to request your benefits. The work search requirement and full work registration requirement has been waived only for applicants requesting benefits for the weeks of March 15 to May 2. You must fulfill these requirements if you requested benefits before March 15.
Duration of Benefits May Be Extended
When the state unemployment rate increases above 5 percent, Florida extends the duration of benefits beyond the standard 12 weeks.
An additional week is added for every 0.5 percent increase to the unemployment rate above 5 percent. The maximum possible extension is 23 weeks. According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report, the Florida unemployment rate for February was 2.8 percent.
Additional Financial Relief Through the Federal CARES Act
The federal government’s COVID-19 relief package, known as the CARES Act, provides eligible unemployed individuals $600 per week for four months.
Those who qualify will receive this benefit in addition to their weekly Florida unemployment benefit. The federal unemployment benefit payments are scheduled to end July 31, 2020.
The CARES Act also authorizes direct relief payments to qualifying individuals and families. If you filed your 2019 or 2018 tax return and received your refund through direct deposit, your emergency relief payment will be automatically deposited in your bank account.
The payment amount for those who qualify is $1,200 for individuals, $2,400 for married couples and up to $500 for each child.
Self-Employed and Gig Economy Workers Now Qualify for Unemployment Benefits
Floridians who are self-employed, nonprofit workers or contractors — including gig economy workers such as Uber and Lyft drivers — do not typically qualify for state benefits.
However, the CARES Act allows these workers to apply for $600 per week in federal benefits by filing through Florida’s unemployment system. As of April 9, 2020, the state is still developing a process to accept these claims.
The Government does not let alone people who have lost their jobs and are looking for new job opportunities. Individuals who lost their jobs without having committed any faults and who are willing and fit to work will be able to receive financial assistance. This benefit is subject to the conditions established by each State; local unemployment agencies can provide you with further details.
Financial aid is not the only benefit the unemployed will be able to receive, the Government also offers several programs and benefits such as job training and the search for a new job, all the information is in the website www.careeronestop.org, this page is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor and gives you the ability to:
- Search for employment online
- Research salaries by career.
- Prepare for job interviews.
- Find employment agencies according to the state in which you live.
- Find community colleges or institutions that offer basic education and adult training.
There is the possibility of having unemployment insurance that provides temporary compensation to eligible workers who are unemployed for motives that are beyond their control. The unemployed can file an Unemployment Insurance claim on the website mentioned above, where they must choose the state in which they are living; the same way they will have access to see the status of the application and the payments made if they have already started receiving benefits.
The request can also be made in person or by telephone contacting the numbers that have been established for each state.
Nowadays is essential to identify the industry market trends, advanced digital skills, qualified professional profiles, and business culture among other points of interest that must be taken into account when looking for a job. These tips are part of the government’s advice offered to unemployed people.
Some states may grant up to 13 weeks of extended unemployment insurance benefits when the level of unemployment growths and chosen persons are notified directly by the State.
Remember that unemployment insurance benefits are taxable, therefore, you must declare any income you have received as compensation and complete the appropriate forms depending on the type of program. If you receive compensation for one year you may need to make quarterly tax payments; however, this information should be verified in the IRS website.
Unemployment compensation includes amounts received under the laws of the United States or each state such as:
- State unemployment insurance benefits.
- Benefits paid by a state or the District of Columbia from the Federal Unemployment Trust Fund.
- Railroad unemployment compensation benefits
- Disability payments paid as a substitute for unemployment compensation
- Trade readjustment allowances under the Trade Act of 1974.
- Unemployment assistance under the Disaster Relief and Emergency Act of 1974.
- Unemployment assistance under the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 Program.
Food Assistance Program and SUNCAP
Low-income people can buy food with the help of Florida Food Assistance Program. People unable to buy healthy food can use this program to purchase food necessary for good health. Typically, food assistance program helps families living and cooking meals together. Once a household has qualified for Food Assistance Program, it will receive food assistance based on number of people living in the household and the amount of money household has after subtracting certain expenses.
Food Stamps
There are two programs in Florida for providing food assistance. The primary program is Florida Food Assistance Program, which is part of the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) federal program. The other food assistance program is called SUNCAP which provides food assistance for those who are already receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from Social Security.
KidCare Health Insurance
Florida KidCare is a health insurance plan created for children and young adults under the age of 19. It covers wide range of medical services, specifically created for different age groups.
LIHEAP
Florida LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps low-income households in Florida pay their heating and cooling costs. The program provides home energy costs, crisis assistance, as well as help when a household is running out fuel but can’t afford it anymore.
Medicaid
Low-income Families living in Florida can get free medical coverage for basic medical cover through Medicaid program. The insurance program doesn’t only cover U.S citizens but also provides medical cover for aliens.
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA & TANF)
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) program helps low-income families with cash assistance. The program focuses on families with children under 18 or 19, in case of high school students, so that these children can stay at home while their families have enough cash to support them. Pregnant women unable to work will also be able to apply for TCA in their 3rd trimester. In order to apply for TCA, all members of the household will have to apply together.
Unemployment
Reemployment Assistance is a part of Florida Unemployment Compensation Services Program which provides temporary financial help to workers who lost their job through no fault on their own and which are eligible for this type of financial assistance.
Florida Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides aid to low-income families for energy saving repairs. The program aims to reduce cost of energy for qualified households by reducing consumption of fuel.
Florida WIC is a special food program meant for low income Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) living in the Sunshine State of Florida. The program is fully funded by the United States Department of Agriculture. In the state of Florida, WIC is administered by the Department of Health through the County Health Department. It is a short-term program and therefore participants graduate at the end of one or more certification periods. A certification period is the length of time a WIC participant is eligible to receive benefits.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – On Tuesday, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) published a step-by-step guide — with screenshots of the online portal —to help independent contractors and self-employed individuals apply for federal unemployment benefits, referred to as Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).
Through the state unemployment system, called CONNECT, you now have the ability to apply for federal benefits. But you must first apply for state benefits and be denied in order to access it. Here is a breakdown of the process:
If you applied for state benefits on or before April 4 you must:
- Go to CONNECT and apply for state benefits again.
- Wait for DEO to deny your state benefits.
- Once you get denied, check your CONNECT inbox for instructions about PUA.
If you applied for state benefits after April 4 you must:
- Wait for DEO to deny your state benefits.
- Once you get denied, check your CONNECT inbox for instructions about PUA.
In both of the above cases, you will not get access to the PUA application until DEO has processed your state benefits application and denied your state benefits. Only then will access to the PUA application appear in the CONNECT system.
A helpful summary and FAQ of the PUA application process can be found here. Additionally, DEO will be paying benefits retroactively from when you became eligible under the CARES Act, as outlined in their COVID-19 resource guide (independent contractor question is on page 11).
The CARES Act provides two forms of unemployment benefits:
- Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA): Up to $275 in weekly benefits for 39 weeks for individuals who are self-employed, independent contractors, certain non-profit employees and gig economy workers, as well as individuals working part-time or who otherwise would not qualify for regular state Reemployment Assistance benefits under state or federal law.
- Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC): An additional $600 a week for unemployment beginning March 29, 2020, and ends the week ending July 25, 2020.
The links throughout this story, as well as additional information such as documentation requirements, can be found on DEO’s CARES Act website.
You’re here because you are unemployed and want to file a claim to receive your weekly unemployment benefits. Don’t be intimidated or afraid. This site is easy to use, and MDES is here to help you navigate the path to a new job and a new future.
First, here’s where to go to GET STARTED. We’ll take you step-by-step through the process of filing a claim to receive your unemployment benefit.
Part of the requirement for continuing to receive a weekly unemployment check is that you have to look for a job until you find one. You can do that from here, too. But first you have to register to use our online services.
Register with MDES
The first thing you have to do is register with MDES Online Services. Whether you want to file a claim to receive weekly unemployment benefits or to search for a new job, you must register first. That’s how you get your personal User Name and PIN number to be able to use the online system whenever you need to.
Get the Details
Everything you need to know about filing for benefit claims, how to qualify to receive unemployment benefits, what to do to file your claim every week and how to prepare your work search record is here for you.
Claims Information
There are many types of unemployment benefits claims you can file, depending on your particular situation: regular claims, interstate claims, combined wage claims, federal civilian claims and federal military claims. Everything you need to know about each is here in one convenient location, along with additional programs that may benefit you.
Learn how government policies affect you, your job, and your family
Kitchen Table Economics
Since the start of the pandemic outbreak in the United States, more than 30 million people have filed for unemployment benefits. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks unemployment as an indicator for economic distress or growth in the United States. Unemployment numbers have been recorded since the 1950s.
But how does unemployment compensation work?
Unemployment insurance is a joint federal and state government program that provides those who are temporarily unemployed with financial assistance. Americans who do not have a job, but have been actively looking and are currently available to work are eligible to apply.
The federal government sets the general guidelines for unemployment insurance, but each state can determine the specifics of coverage. These state-based decisions include the amount of money each person receives, what the requirements are needed to qualify funds, and more.
Unemployment benefits are only possible because of tax payments made by employers. Businesses have to pay a federal unemployment tax (FUTA) for each employee. The FUTA rate is 6.0 percent of the first $7,000 of each employee’s wages for the year. Some employers choose to participate in state unemployment programs which means their FUTA rate drops to 0.6 percent or $42 per employee. The state unemployment rate varies by state.
During times of increased unemployment where more funds are needed–like the crisis we are in now–the The Federal Reserve can give the Treasury money through a grant. Then, Congress allocates the money to government run programs like unemployment. Businesses do not have to pay more in FUTA or state based tax for unemployment insurance.
In many states, unemployment insurance is provided for 26 weeks. During the pandemic, the government has agreed to extend all unemployment benefits for an additional 13 weeks.
Correcting your application for unemployment benefits can be a simple as visiting your state’s unemployment compensation website or obtaining the correct form from a local unemployment office. Delaying the corrections could hurt your chances to properly receive benefits and may hinder your ability to win your case if your previous employer chooses to contest your eligibility.
Online Changes to Application
For simple changes of address, you may be able to visit your state’s unemployment department website and submit a change of address electronically. The website may require you to enter a personal password or identification number you obtained when you first filed your unemployment claim.
Video of the Day
If your state does not take changes of address electronically or you need to make corrections to more sensitive information, such as your driver’s license number or Social Security number, you may have to call, mail in a form or visit a local branch of your unemployment office to make the necessary changes. However, call before heading out since many physical offices have closed temporarily due to COVID-19.
Importance of Correcting Information
Correcting information on your unemployment application can mean the difference between the approval or denial of your request for benefits. Entering incorrect information, including dates of employment or your identifying formation, could cause your state’s unemployment department to wrongly classify your benefits application.
This can lead to a lower-than-expected level of unemployment compensation, which can make it even more difficult for you to meet your financial obligations and keep your creditors satisfied until you find new employment.
Providing False Employment Information
Intentionally providing false information on your application for unemployment benefits, including on application correction forms, to inflate your eligibility for unemployment compensation is a crime.
Penalties for committing this offense include paying back all illegally received benefits plus interest to your state’s unemployment department and suspension of your unemployment rights until you pay back all illegally received benefits. You may even face jail time if you are a repeat offender or your gain from your unemployment fraud is particularly large.
Unemployment Compensation Hearings
You or your employer has the right to contest the decision regarding your unemployment benefit eligibility with your state’s unemployment department. At this hearing, you may provide the arbitrator with any additional information to correct your initial application for unemployment. Your employer is also free to provide information, including disciplinary records, to prove that you should not receive benefits from the state.
If the corrected information you present to the arbitrator renders you eligible for benefits, the arbitrator should approve your case.
by Maurie Backman | Updated July 17, 2021 – First published on March 27, 2020
Image source: Getty Images
Lost your job due to the COVID-19 crisis? It pays to file a claim for unemployment benefits.
Millions of Americans have already lost their jobs or seen their income decline because of COVID-19. If you’re in that boat, unemployment benefits could provide temporary financial relief. Here’s what you need to know about filing for them in Pennsylvania.
Do I qualify for unemployment benefits?
You can file for unemployment benefits in Pennsylvania if you:
- Lost your job through no fault of your own
- Have had your hours reduced at your job but are still working
- Are quarantined because of COVID-19
There are income requirements for unemployment benefits. To be eligible, you must have:
- Earned at least $116 per week for at least 18 weeks during your base period
- Earned at least $1,688 during the highest quarter in your base period
- Earned at least $3,391 in total wages during your base period
If you file a claim for unemployment benefits in March 2020, your base period would be October 2018 through September 2019. If you file in April 2020, your base period would be January through December 2019.
How do I apply for unemployment benefits?
You can apply for unemployment benefits online via Pennsylvania’s Office of Unemployment Compensation. You’ll need to provide information that includes:
- Your Social Security number
- Your contact information (mailing address, phone number, and email)
- Your former employer’s name, address, and phone number
- The first and last day you worked for your former employer
- Your reason for leaving that job (to verify you were not fired for cause)
- Severance information, if applicable
How much money will I receive in unemployment benefits?
The weekly benefit you collect should equal about 50% of your full-time weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $572 per week. Additionally, once you’re approved for benefits, you may receive an additional $5 each week for a dependent spouse plus $3 per week for one dependent child. If you don’t have a dependent spouse, you can collect $5 per week for one dependent child, plus another $3 per week for a second dependent child. All told, your allowance for dependents can’t exceed $8 per week.
How long can I collect unemployment benefits?
You can collect unemployment benefits in Pennsylvania for 26 weeks. If you don’t find work before your benefits run out, you can file for an unemployment extension. Each extension is reviewed and granted on a case-by-case basis.
However, keep in mind the CARES Act extends your benefit period by 13 weeks.
What if my unemployment claim is denied?
If your unemployment benefits claim is denied, you can file an appeal online. Be sure to file your appeal within 15 days of receiving your determination.
File sooner rather than later
If you’re out of work and don’t have emergency savings to fall back on, it’s imperative that you file for unemployment benefits as soon as you can. The good news is that you can sign up to have your benefits deposited directly into your bank account. All you need is your account and routing number to get that set up.
These savings accounts are FDIC insured and could earn you up to 12x your bank
Many people are missing out on guaranteed returns as their money languishes in a big bank savings account earning next to no interest. Our picks of the best online savings accounts can earn you more than 12x the national average savings account rate. Click here to uncover the best-in-class picks that landed a spot on our shortlist of the best savings accounts for 2022.