There are a few things you should know before applying for unemployment benefits. First, you need to know the wage and work requirements to qualify for benefits. Second, you should know if you can receive your benefits via electronic payment card (EPC) or direct deposit. Third, you need to appeal a denial if you have been denied benefits.
Work and wage requirements to qualify for UI benefits
There are some basic work and wage requirements in order to qualify for unemployment benefits. The first criterion is that you must have worked for at least three months within the previous calendar year. The next requirement is that you must have earned at least $1,900 in one calendar quarter. However, you may use alternate base periods if you can’t prove you earned more than $1,900 in a single quarter.
Lastly, you must be able to perform the work required. It is essential that you are willing to work full or part-time. It also helps if you are willing to work normal hours and not restrict your travel time to work. You must also report any income that you receive.
The amount of money you need to earn to qualify for unemployment benefits will vary from state to state. The average amount for UI payments varies from $215 per week in Mississippi to $550 in Massachusetts. Generally, the higher your earnings, the lower your UI payment will be.
Direct deposit or electronic payment card (EPC)
If you’ve recently been apply for unemployed, you can sign up for unemployment benefits using an electronic payment card. This card looks like a debit card and is issued by the state. It’s not possible to load your card with personal money. Once approved, you’ll receive your unemployment benefit in your account.
If you want to receive your benefits quickly, you can apply for direct deposit. You can request that your unemployment benefits be sent directly to your checking or savings account, or to a prepaid card. This makes receiving your benefits much easier and convenient. You can also avoid the risk of lost or misplaced paper checks by opting for direct deposit.
Once your apply application is approved, you’ll be issued a debit card. Activate it, set up a PIN, and begin receiving your benefits. Once you receive your benefits, you’ll be able to use your card to make ATM withdrawals or purchase items at stores. Depending on your state’s unemployment office, your unemployment benefits may also be sent to your bank account.
Appealing a denial of UI benefits
If you’ve been denied benefits by the Department of Labor, you may be eligible to appeal your denial. You may do this through the Office of Administrative Hearings. You must file your appeal within twenty days of receiving the denial. If you miss this deadline, you’ll have to show a good reason. The Appeals Division will decide if you can appeal based on your circumstances. It is also important to keep filing for benefits while your apply is pending.
Once you’ve filed your appeal, you may be scheduled for an unemployment hearing. This is an informal hearing conducted before an unemployment appeals board or administrative law judge. During this hearing, witnesses may testify on your behalf. Evidence presented at the hearing will be used to determine whether or apply not you are entitled to unemployment benefits.
Last Employer
- Last employer information including company name, supervisor’s name, address (mailing and physical location) and phone number. If you are self-employed, a business owner, or an independent contractor, list yourself as your last employer.
- Last date worked and the reason you are no longer apply working.
- Total gross earnings in the last week you worked, beginning with Sunday and ending with your last day of work. If you are self-employed or an independent contractor, you will need your net income (total after taxes).