Unemployment insurance pays for unemployment benefits. When an employee loses his job through no fault of his own, he may qualify for unemployment benefits to help pay for bills and necessities during his job search. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, each state establishes is own unemployment insurance program within the framework of federal law. While the specific state requirements may vary, the general concept of unemployment benefits is uniform.
Instructions
1. Earn wages from an employer that pays unemployment insurance. According to the Department of Labor, most states fund the employment benefits system by requiring employers to pay unemployment taxes. In order to receive benefits, you must have received wages from an employer who paid into the system.
2. Earn enough wages during the "base period" to qualify for unemployment. The base period is a certain number of months over the past year or two. Many states establish the base period as four out of the last five calendar quarters. The exact amount of wages and hours required varies by state. In the state of Washington, for example, you must have worked at least 680 hours during the base period.
3. Become unemployed through no fault of your own. You typically may not quit your job or be fired for misconduct if you intend to receive unemployment benefits. If you are laid off because your employment is seasonal or if your hours are significantly reduced, you may qualify for unemployment benefits.
4. Apply for unemployment benefits and receive money to supplement your income while you look for a new job. The state will send you weekly benefits to help you make ends meet. You must remain ready, willing and able to work. Your benefits are temporary, however. According to the Department of Labor, most stares pay benefits for up to 26 weeks.
5. Report to your state's workforce division and file documents showing job leads and any changes in your employment situation. This final requirement keeps the state informed that you still need benefits.
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