Understanding Unemployment Uncertainty: Job Hunt

Losing a job is like a sucker punch to the gut. Whether you anticipated it or not, deserved it or not, suddenly being unemployed feels like a body blow.

There should be a separate college course that teaches how to figure out unemployment benefits. Many people turn down little side jobs because they don't want to jeopardize their regular unemployment money. That may not be necessary.

If you find yourself needing to apply for unemployment, here are some answers to key questions. Also, there are lots of links to resources you probably never knew of.

First of all, in order to claim unemployment, you have to have worked for a company that qualifies for unemployment. If you get laid off or fired, your employer must pay a certain amount of money into your unemployment benefits.

You will need to be a mathematician in order to calculate the proper amount you will receive. Link here to read the formula. However, the best way to figure it out correctly is to fill out the forms or speak with someone directly.

If your spouse is unemployed, or you have children, you can receive an additional allowance.

It is possible to work a little bit and remain on unemployment.

“You may draw some benefits for a week if you work less than full time because of lack of work,” according to the Illinois Department of Unemployment Security Web site. “Your earnings for the week must be less than the weekly benefit amount you would draw if you were completely out of work in the week.”

Keep in mind, anything that you receive from unemployment is taxable. You will be required to provide your social security number. You may choose to have your federal taxes taken out of your unemployment check automatically.

You can apply for unemployment online. To do so, you will need your social security number and your employer information. That includes their address, employment dates, reason for separation. You will also need to list all the employers you worked for since April 1, 2009.

If you plan to claim a child or an unemployed spouse, you will also need their social security numbers, birth dates and complete names.

There is a list of computer system requirements available. Check here to see if your computer is compatible with the online application system. 

You will also be able to have your funds directly deposited into your bank account. Click here to learn how to register online with a username and password. The only other option is to receive a debit card in the mail.

If you believe you need to appeal a decision made by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, there is a process. You can call 800- 821-3550 if you live north of Interstate 80. If you live south of I-80, the number is 800-423-2458. 

There is an appeal brochure in English and Spanish, as well as a video and audio. All of the appeal and board of review forms are available online.

You should not need to hire an attorney to file an appeal. Instead, there are free legal services available for claimants and small employers. If you are a claimant and your social security number ends in 0 through 4, call 800-884-6591. If it ends in a 5 through 9, call 888-430-1776.

Small employers can get free legal services by calling 866-641-4288 if their unemployment insurance account number ends in a 0 through 4. Otherwise, they may call 877-849-2007.

Veterans have additional services and rights. For more details, click here.