Photo: Christina @ wocintechchat.com / UnsplashUnemployment insurance
- Work, business and lawyers
How to File for Unemployment Benefits Step by Step: Eligibility, Documents and Common Mistakes
Step-by-step guide to filing for unemployment insurance: eligibility basics, when to apply, documents to gather, weekly certifications, work search rules, waiting weeks and mistakes that delay payments.
3 min read - Work, business and lawyers
Unemployment After Being Fired, Laid Off or Quitting: Eligibility Explained
How different reasons for leaving a job affect unemployment eligibility: layoffs, firings for misconduct versus poor performance, quitting with good cause, reduced hours, severance and how to prepare your case.
3 min read - Work, business and lawyers
Can I Collect Unemployment If I Quit My Job?
When a resignation can still qualify for unemployment benefits, such as good cause or unsafe conditions, and how to document it.
2 min read - Work, business and lawyers
Unemployment Benefits: How to Appeal a Denial
Why claims get denied, the short appeal deadlines, what happens at a hearing and how to prepare.
4 min read - Work, business and lawyers
Unemployment Overpayments: Why You Got a Bill and How to Respond
Why states demand repayment of unemployment benefits, your appeal and waiver rights and how to avoid fraud accusations.
2 min read
Disability and Social Security
- Work, business and lawyers
How to Apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI): Step-by-Step Guide
How to apply for SSDI benefits, eligibility rules, medical evidence, what Social Security looks for, common reasons for denial and how the review process works.
4 min read - Work, business and lawyers
SSDI vs SSI: Differences, Eligibility and Which Disability Benefit You May Qualify For
The difference between Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income, work history versus financial need, income and asset limits, Medicare and Medicaid and applying for both.
4 min read - Work, business and lawyers
Social Security Disability Appeals: The Four Levels
Most initial SSDI and SSI claims are denied. Learn the appeal levels, the 60-day deadline and how attorney fees work.
2 min read - Work, business and lawyers
Social Security Overpayments: What to Do If SSA Says You Owe Money
Why overpayments occur, your right to appeal or request a waiver and how repayment works.
2 min read
Appeals and help
- Work, business and lawyers
Appealing a Denial of Government Benefits: Fair Hearings, Deadlines and Evidence
How to appeal a denial or reduction of benefits such as food assistance, Medicaid, cash assistance or unemployment: read the notice, deadlines, continued benefits, preparing for a fair hearing and free help.
3 min read - Family and estate
Free Legal Help for Seniors and Veterans: Programs, Eligibility and How to Ask
Where seniors and veterans can find free legal help with wills, benefits, housing, debt and elder abuse, including programs not tied to strict income limits.
4 min read - Debt and bankruptcy
Legal Aid for Debt, Collections and Consumer Problems: Where to Get Free Help
How to find free legal help with debt collection lawsuits, wage garnishment, repossession, bankruptcy questions and consumer scams.
4 min read - Work, business and lawyers
USERRA: Job Protections for Service Members and Reservists
How USERRA protects reemployment rights after military service, notice duties, benefits and how to file a complaint.
2 min read
Frequently asked questions
When should I file for unemployment?
As soon as you lose your job or hours.
Can I get benefits if I was fired?
Often yes unless the firing was for willful misconduct.
How long do I have to appeal a denial?
Usually a short deadline, often 10 to 30 days.
Are unemployment benefits taxable?
Generally yes.
Can I get free help with an appeal?
Legal aid and benefits advocates may help.