Can I Receive Unemployment?

Thanks to a recovering economy, the unemployment rate stood at 4.7 percent in January 2017. That was good compared to the height of the recession that started in 2007, but unfortunately, there were 7.5 million Americans out of work. If you're still without a job, you might qualify for unemployment insurance benefits.

Different States

Different states have various rules to qualify for unemployment, so the first step is to go to the relevant state agency that oversees unemployment benefits and fill out paperwork. States distribute unemployment because they receive funding from state and federal taxes, while the federal government has basic rules for the states. In general, if you're eligible, states provide 26 weeks' worth of unemployment provided you are actively looking for a job.

Some Requirements

When you apply for unemployment, the agency in charge of your case might ask for documentation and ask you a few questions. Have some paperwork handy before you arrive at the agency. The first major hurdle to cross is that you must prove that you lost your job through no fault of your own. Reasons include downsizing, mergers, acquisitions or a company closing. If you leave a job voluntarily or if you're fired due to misconduct, you cannot qualify for unemployment benefits.

You need to receive an IRS W-2 wage statement from your company to qualify for unemployment. This means freelancers and independent contractors cannot receive these benefits because they do not pay into the state and federal taxes that fund unemployment insurance. If you worked as a full- or part-time W-2 wage earner, you're eligible for unemployment so long as you earned enough money at your previous job.

You needed to work for a particular length of time while earning enough money to qualify for unemployment, but each state has different rules. For instance, in New Jersey, you have to work at least 20 weeks while earning a minimum of $168 per week. Ohio has the same 20-week rule, but you must average around $247 per week. There is one more basic requirement you need for unemployment insurance benefits.

Actively Looking for a Job

You must actively look for a job while receiving unemployment. This means you must document your applications, interviews and attempts to find work. One way to pass the time during your unemployment is to network into your next job rather than simply filling out applications online. Prove you attended these events by showing your unemployment caseworker documentation from each event. Networking helps get your name and personal brand out there, which can lead to employment.

Time Frame and Amounts

Most states let you receive unemployment benefits starting one week after you apply. That means time is of the essence if you want start receiving benefits as soon as possible. Generally, you may get up to half of your previous paycheck up to certain limits. That means high-wage earners might not get half of their paychecks as a benefit.

Qualifying for unemployment gives you some breathing room as you search for a new job. Rather than taking anything that comes your way, strategize your time off right, and you might land a position that's better than the one you lost.

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