Fighting for Unemployment Benefits: Part 2

In my last posting, I began looking at how some companies have been challenging and trying to block their previous employees from receiving unemployment benefits, and reasons behind why they would do so. Now I wish to take a look at some of the things you can do to protect yourself against this while you are still in your job.

Start a file and begin collecting examples of items from coworkers or management praising your work. This would include things like emails, evaluations, letters of recommendation or commendation, etc. Hold on to anything that shows a history of you being considered a valued employee. This type of material can be very beneficial to present in making your case for the state unemployment agency.

Apply early, as soon as you are eligible. If you get in quick enough, you may possibly beat the rush and get approved before your employer even gets around to filing a challenge.

At the time you are laid off, ask your employer for a formal written letter of dismissal that lays out the reasoning for you being laid off. If they do not list a negative reason here then their challenge will look more suspicious later and you will have this letter showing you were not notified of any issues at the time of dismissal. If they do list negative reasons, you can address the legitimacy of that at this early part of the process. If possible, also ask for a letter of recommendation from your immediate supervisor at the time you are let go. All of this can be helpful for your case.

When you are notified of being dismissed, respond in a graceful manner. Losing your job is not a happy moment, but do not complicate things by getting angry and throwing a fit. This will just look worse on your record with the company and may come back to haunt you in the future if a referral is requested from a previous employer.

Be sure to keep it honest and do not lie about your position or work history when filing for unemployment. Inconsistencies on your application will just open the door for your employer to point out and can hurt your case.

And lastly, if your company is a large enough company and has a large enough lay-off to be featured in any news media outlets (internet, newspaper, etc.) then be sure to print or clip those stories. If the layoff involved a large number of people, then you have additional proof that you were let go because of company cut-backs and personal not performance issues.

Have you ever had to fight for your benefits? Tell us your story, what you did, and the outcome. Any tips you wish to share with others can be posted in the comments below.

Jeff McCormack resides in Virginia Beach, VA. where he works as a web designer by day. In his off time he is a husband, father, mail order book store manager, and musician. Aside from being a freelance writer for this Utilities Jobsite blog, he also seeks to assist in career choices and information by contributing to other Nexxt blog sites.