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:

Can I collect unemployment if I was fired for poor performance?

It depends on your state's eligibility requirements. To collect unemployment benefits, you must be out of work through no fault of your own. Most states consider employees who are fired for performance reasons or simply because they are a "bad fit" for the position to be eligible for benefits. On the other hand, an employee who commits serious misconduct, such as stealing from the company or violating important safety rules, probably won't be eligible. For more information, see Nolo's article Unemployment Benefits: What If You're Fired?