How to Collect Unemployment After Losing Your Job

If you were fired, there is a good chance that you can collect unemployment. There are several steps you need to take before you receive your benefits. Apply as soon as possible because it could take awhile before you start to receive your benefits. The amount of money you receive will not be as much as you were making on your full time job, but it should help until you find new employment. Make sure you fill out any forms correctly, otherwise there could be a delay in receiving your unemployment benefits.

Instructions

Filing Location

1

Find out where you are supposed to file for unemployment benefits. Make sure you are filing in the correct city or county.

2

Get the phone number for your unemployment agency branch and call for the correct procedures. The representative will ask you a series of questions regarding your last employer. Answer all questions honestly and to the best of your ability.

3

Wait for a return call in several days from unemployment agency personnel. You will then either receive paperwork in the mail or you'll be required to go to the agency branch and fill out paperwork. Likely, agency personnel will tell you to bring certain forms of ID. Follow instructions stated on the paperwork.

4

Check your mailbox for information from the unemployment bureau. They will send you information about the terms and conditions of unemployment.

5

You will need to contact two prospective employers per week and keep a log of all contacts. Write down the name of the employer, address, phone number, the person contacted and their title. Make a note of how you applied, whether online or by direct mail.

6

Send your checking account information, including account number and bank routing number, to the unemployment bureau if you want your money deposited directly into your checking account.

7

Every two weeks or weekly, you must fill out paperwork you receive in the mail and send it in to the unemployment office. You will have to answer questions concerning work opportunities. These filings are what activates your payments from unemployment.