Unemployment Benefits FAQ

Questions:

• Can I collect unemployment if I was fired for poor performance?
• I had to quit my job after my daughter was diagnosed with cancer; can I get unemployment benefits?
• After I was laid off, I took my son out of day care to save money; can I still collect unemployment even though I'm spending most of my time being a stay-at-home mom?
• Must I have earned a certain amount at my last job to collect unemployment?
• How long will it take to get my unemployment benefits after I file?
• How much money will I receive if I decide to file for unemployment benefits?
• For how long can I receive unemployment?
• Can my claim for unemployment benefits be denied?
• Is there anything I can do if my claim for unemployment benefits is denied?

Answer:

How long will it take to get my unemployment benefits after I file?

The federal Department of Labor's website says that you can expect your first unemployment check two or three weeks after you apply, as long as you submit all of the required information, and no follow-up is necessary. In some states, there is a waiting period (one week is typical) between the time you become unemployed and when you are eligible for benefits. This means you won't receive any unemployment compensation for the first week you are out of work.