Boston Bankruptcy Lawyer

Filing for Unemployment

Unemployment benefits are provided by state unemployment insurance programs within the guidelines that were established by Federal law. The eligibility for unemployment insurance, benefit amounts, and the length of time between benefits available are determined by state law.

In order to receive unemployment compensation, a worker must meet the unemployment eligibility requirements for wages earned or time worked during an established period of time. The worker must be determined through no fault of their own.

There are a number of circumstances that can disqualify a person from collecting unemployment benefits. These depend on state law but frequently include:

• Quitting without good cause
• Being fired for misconduct
• Resigning because of illness
• Leaving to get married
• Self-employment
• Involved in a labor dispute
• Attending school

Each state is also allowed to change the benefits that are given. These have rules as well. Some of the benefits include:

• Paid benefits for a maximum of 26 weeks in most states
• More weeks of benefits in times of high unemployment
• Compensation can be half of a person’s earnings, to a maximum amount

The benefits are subject to federal income taxes and must be reported on a federal income tax return. While it is not a job, the benefits of unemployment are still income. Individuals who are self employed or work as contract workers are typically not eligible for unemployment.

Contact a Boston Bankruptcy Lawyer

For more information on unemployment and filing for bankruptcy, contact the Boston bankruptcy lawyers of Joshua Spirn & Associates at 1-800-975-5346 to discuss your options.