Being laid off can be stressful and financially draining. Unemployment benefits can tide you and your family over until you are able to secure another position. Whether you’re on your first unemployment application or your claim has already been denied, reviewing the process and seeking legal advice can help you understand your rights.
Determining Your Eligibility
Early in the application process, you need to figure out whether you qualify for Florida unemployment benefits. First, you must have become unemployed through no fault of your own. Malicious misconduct disqualifies you, as does resigning for personal reasons. You may qualify for unemployment benefits if you resign under certain circumstances, but these situations are best handled by a qualified legal professional.
You must also meet minimum wage standards, be available to work, and be seeking employment.
Submitting a Claim
Filing for unemployment requires a significant amount of paperwork and documentation. Be ready to submit your personal information, data on your previous employer(s), gross earnings for the past week, identification, and a blank check or deposit slip. Also keep in mind that timing is essential in this process. You should apply for unemployment within one week of losing your job.
If you are approved for unemployment, you will receive funds every two weeks upon request. If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. You’ll have to provide proof that you are continuing to seek employment and that you have not denied any offers of suitable work, however.
Appealing a Denial of an Unemployment Claim
Upon receiving notification of your denial, you can – and should – appeal the state’s decision. Appeals must be filed no later than 20 days after the denial notice leaves the unemployment office. The Unemployment Appeals Commission handles these types of requests, and either upholds the original decision or awards unemployment benefits.
In many cases, employers dispute unemployment claims, even if applicants meet all eligibility requirements. And unfortunately, wrongful denials are common. Having a legal professional help you through your appeal:
Time is money, so it’s important to act quickly once you become unemployed. Instead of navigating Florida unemployment requirements on your own, call the Law Office of Keith M. Stern, P.A. at (305) 901-1379 for a free consultation and a review of your unemployment case.
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