Unemployment benefits are available through your State Unemployment Insurance Agency. The payments are designed to bridge the gap in income caused by losing your job. These benefits are only offered to individuals who become unemployed through no fault of their own. If you become unemployed and it’s not your fault, applying for benefits is a worthwhile endeavor. There is no cost associated with filing for unemployment benefits.
If you were laid off from a job or lost a job due to a company closure, it is highly likely that you are eligible to receive these benefits. Benefit payments are available to anyone who has lost their job and are not based on financial need. You will not likely be eligible if you were fired or quit your job, since the actions leading to unemployment were likely your own. Common scenarios where one should consider filing an unemployment insurance claim include the following:
Evelyn worked at a manufacturing plant for over 20 years. As the economy took a downturn, her plant began to lay off workers. During the second round of lay-offs, Evelyn was let go to cut costs at the company. Since Evelyn’s unemployment was due to factors outside her control, she is likely eligible to receive unemployment benefits.
