Many people have been hit by unemployment because of the epidemic, coupled with temporarily high inflation, they are also under enormous economic pressure. Generally, when American companies pay taxes to the government, they also pay unemployment insurance benefits to their employees. As long as the employees are not fired intentionally causing losses to the company, they can usually receive unemployment benefits for a period of time to maintain short-term expenses. If a job is found during this period, the benefit will be suspended, and if the fixed benefit time is up and there is no following job, the benefit will not continue.
In September 2021, the COVID-19 unemployment benefits provided by the U.S. federal government have officially expired, and this financial aid, which can also be used as an additional option, has not been renewed, affecting more than 10 million people. This means that 3.3 million long-term unemployed and 4.2 million gig economy workers and freelancers in the United States will lose COVID-19 unemployment benefits completely. Another 3 million people continue to receive regular unemployment benefits, but also lose the additional support of $300 per week after this policy expires. Therefore, everyone can currently only apply for regular unemployment benefits. Here are some tips on maximizing unemployment benefits:
Don’t waste time; apply as soon as possible
If you currently need to apply for unemployment benefits, in order to be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits, you must either have lost your job through no fault of your own, or have limited wages or salaries. Unemployment Insurance (UI) is not available to self-employed individuals, independent contractors or gig workers. At present, there are corresponding collection options for those who have lost their jobs during the epidemic. You can apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits as soon as possible, it may take about 2-3 weeks after you file your application. So, please apply as soon as possible.
Apply in a correct way
If you are eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits, you should:
On the Claimant Unemployment Insurance Service Center page, locate and click on the section labeled “Apply for Benefits”. Answer questions with accurate information and complete the claim application process. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the section labeled “Submit a Claim Online”.
Fill in your application form in detail as required
When applying for unemployment benefits, you need to fill in everything correctly, as errors or inconsistencies may delay the release of your benefits and it may take more time for the department to confirm, correct and re-review with you. In addition, each state’s requirements may vary, so it is necessary to follow the requirements to complete the application form.
Insist on setting a reasonable spending plan
While you can get some respite from your unemployment benefits, the more you use, the more likely you’ll have less discretionary space the next time you need them, so it’s not a waste of time for this benefit, either. There must also be a reasonable plan.
Improve yourself with limited time
Unemployment is temporary, and benefits cannot be done once and for all. After all, everyone still needs to find another job to support themselves. Then in this gap period, if you have time and money, you can use it to participate in some online courses, volunteer services, and skill improvement, which may make yourself more valuable in the market, and maybe you can find a satisfactory job by the way.
Document your job search experience
Many states require you to have proof of your job search during this period when applying, so that you can continue to receive unemployment insurance benefits smoothly. In New York, for example, a person receiving unemployment insurance must have evidence of at least three different job-seeking activities each week. Detailed requirements for other states require applicants to contact their local office to inquire. However, the job search record cannot be missing, such as the name, date, address, telephone number, and job information of the employer who has been contacted before. You need to keep detailed records on your laptop or computer so you can call them anytime you apply for unemployment benefits.
Jobless claims fell by 6,000 for the week ended September 3, 2022, to 222,000, the lowest level since May. This reflects that U.S. hiring has not been affected by rising interest rates and weak economic growth, and job demand remains healthy, which is a good thing for the country.
For individuals, if you are unfortunately unemployed, receiving unemployment benefits is a favorable policy given by the government, but this is only a short-term method to ease your financial burden. During the entire application process, you need to register with the local unemployment assistance offices set up by the state governments, fill in your personal education and work experience and other information, and then look for job recruitment information on the employment assistance website. Several full-time jobs must also be applied for and documented each week in order to continue receiving benefits. These are the points that need to be paid attention to.
If you don’t look for a job in accordance with the regulations, the benefit will be suspended. On the other hand, factors such as lack of work and unstable economic conditions may also increase psychological pressure, cause psychological anxiety, and affect physical health.
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