Many of us have found ourselves let go from a job without much warning or time to prepare for the unknown. When our employers let us go, we have to understand that it isn’t personal. Unemployment benefits replace part of your wages while you look for the next role. They are not automatic, and certain circumstances disqualify a claim.
These are the ones that come up most often.
Dismissal Due to Misconduct
You could find yourself without employment benefits if you were dismissed from your previous job due to misconduct. The state of California defines misconduct as willful recklessness that disregards the obligations of your role. You must have had the intent to affect the professional interests of your employer in a negative way.
Not Looking for Work
The purpose of unemployment benefits is to support you if your job dismisses you. During that time, unemployment benefits will help you search for a new job. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that not looking for work can disqualify you from unemployment benefits. That’s also why you won’t be eligible for the benefits if you quit your job.
Recently Working
If you have been out of work for quite some time, you are unfortunately not eligible for unemployment benefits. In order to collect unemployment, you must have been let go from your job fairly recently. Moreover, you must meet the base period, which is the amount of time during which you have earned enough wages to qualify for unemployment benefits. That base period varies from state to state.
If you believe you are unlawfully being denied unemployment, consider working with Pershing Square Law Firm. We are unemployment lawyers in California who seek justice for the millions of people facing unjust denials of unemployment and disability benefits.
If You Have Been Disqualified
A disqualification can be appealed, and the notice states the deadline. Our note on mistakes to avoid when filing covers what causes most disqualifications, and California unemployment benefits covers what the programs provide.