Unemployment basics

Unemployment insurance is a state program with federal rules on top. The details vary by state, but the shape is the same everywhere.

Who qualifies

Generally: you lost work through no fault of your own (a layoff is the clearest case), you have enough recent earnings ("base period" wages), and you're able, available and actively looking for work. Being fired for genuine misconduct or quitting without good cause can disqualify you — but denials are appealable.

File right away

Benefits generally run from when you file, not your last day, and some states have a one-week unpaid waiting period. Waiting can cost you weeks you can't recover. Filing is free and done on your state agency's website.

What you'll need

• Your Social Security number and government ID.
• Employment history for the last ~18 months — employers, dates, pay.
• The reason for separation (say "laid off" if that's what happened).

Severance and your benefits

This one's state-specific: some states reduce or delay unemployment while you're receiving severance or salary continuation; others don't count a lump sum at all. Report the severance honestly and let the state apply its rule — guessing can create an overpayment you'll have to repay.

Keep it active

Most states require you to certify weekly or biweekly and to log job-search activity. Miss a certification and payments stop until you fix it. Set a recurring reminder. If you're denied, read the notice — it tells you exactly how and by when to appeal.