Do you know How to File Unemployment the correct way?

Incorrect filing can result in a denial of your claim, a delay in your claim being processed or an awarding of less than the full amount for which you are eligible.

As you transition between jobs, knowing the correct way to file unemployment can result in up to ,000 in benefits during your search.

Unemployment is not a replacement for your income. Unemployment is a way to help you during the time between jobs. That said, finding the right job, interviewing, starting work, and then getting your first paycheck two to four weeks later can strain any budget.

When you file unemployment, taking these 7 factors into consideration will assist you a great deal.

1. Are you eligible to receive unemployment benefits? Because unemployment is a state benefit and not a federal benefit, eligibility varies widely across the country. There is more to merely being unemployed or being laid off. Along with being fired from or quitting a job, you can also file unemployment claims if you are under-employed. Will you stay eligible or not? You can become disqualified even before you file for unemployment, as well as during the filing process, and the continued benefits time period.

2. Amount of the award. We’ll help to determine how much in unemployment benefits you are eligible to receive. In some cases, people are awarded as little as 0 per month, but required to file ongoing paperwork to recieve even that award, which makes it frankly not worth your time.

3. The best time to file unemployment claim. Generally, you should file immediately upon your job dismissal. That said, your case may vary based on your state, and the nature of your termination, so “file unemployment” immediately is definitely not a one-size-fits-all strategy. One of the cases where we offered assistance involved a woman who had her claim delayed for five weeks because she filed for unemployment one week too early. If you are dealing with a potential workman’s compensation claim, complete that before you file.

4. Learn how to File Unemployment. All but six states allow people to file unemployment claims using the Internet. Typically this involves filing a claim with the state with supporting evidence. Once the application is made, the information it contains cannot be changed in any way. When you file your claim, make sure you provide accurate information.

5. Supporting Documentation and Arguments. Depending on your personal situation, we can recommend several arguments for you to use when filing your appication. Being factual is essential. That said, you may want to present facts in a specific way depending on the state laws and how your ex-employer states their side of the case. In general if you quit your job you will need to show a specific reason for you to be eligible for an unemployment claim. These might include issues involving gender or sexual harrassment, issues at home such as domestic violence or transportation issues where no alternative exists.

6. Last, any decision by your state’s agency can be appealed. This saying applies in some cases: “You can wrestle with a pig in the mud, but the pig enjoys it and you just get dirty”. State employees never like dealing with appeals and in some cases it’s a waste of time but in others it can provide a reversal of denial and full award.

Lastly, here are a few of the most common mistakes people make when they file unemployment claims. The preceding tips are from our 9-step re-employment system we designed to save those attempting to file unemployment claims time, and money, and to maximize their benefits. Here are 3 common mistakes (naturally, our guide has many more you can avoid):

1. Filing a claim on Monday. Mondays tend to be the busiest so unless you enjoy waiting in lines or being put on hold, it’s best to wait to file another day. Instead, Monday is a great time to get hold of contacts who may be able to provide referrals. If you use the Internet to file your claim, you should be aware that in some states the previous week cannot be used to support said claim.

2. Not using one’s social network. Over 40% of hires are made based on relationships. Dealing with job boards and classified ads is great, but far less effective than relying on the people who know and respect you.

3. Providing too much information can result in your application being denied. We cannot issue advice to encompass all situations, but in general, don’t provide any more than the bare minimum. Anyone wanting to file unemployment should be aware that because the system is stretched thin, even minor mistakes on your application can result in your claim being denied.

Losing your job is hard. It is stressful not only financially, but psychologically, and emotionally, as well. Ever noticed that when the highest-paid exectutives manage to get million-dollar severance packages, and no matter what seem ok? Our complete guide and system to help you file unemployment can help you turn a closed door into an opportunity. Handled right, a change of employment can be a potentially profitable experience. If handled incorrectly, your career, as well as your finances, will suffer.