Unemployment benefits offer Floridians a way to make ends meet temporarily when job loss strikes. Your eligibility to collect unemployment benefits depends primarily on the type of employment you had and the reason for the most recent separation from your job. You can collect unemployment benefits if you are unemployed or partially employed. If you are looking for a position, you may want to see if Miami’s largest employers are currently hiring.
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about unemployment benefits in Florida.
What are the financial requirements to collect unemployment benefits?
You must have worked and earned wages during the first four of the last five calendar quarters (beginning in January, April, July, and October). These five quarters are known as the “base period.” During that period, you must:
- Have received wages in two or more calendar quarters
- Have total wages during the base period of at least 150% of wages during the highest quarter in the base period
- Earned at least $ 3,400 during the base period
What are the work eligibility requirements for unemployment insurance?
In most cases, you must have been involuntarily separated from your job to receive benefits. Also, that separation must be for reasons other than misconduct. You are eligible for benefits if you were fired for unsatisfactory job performance, rather than “willful or controllable acts … that show a deliberate disregard for the employer’s interest.” In some limited cases, you can receive benefits if you quit your job, as long as you can show that you meet the state criteria.
How much money will I receive in unemployment benefits?
The smallest amount you will receive is $ 32 per week and the highest benefit you can receive is $ 275 per week. Your benefits are calculated by taking the highest amount of money earned during any quarter in the base period and dividing it by 26, subject to the minimum and maximum limits of $ 32 and $ 275.
Do I need to look for a job while receiving unemployment benefits?
Yes. Those receiving benefits must be able to work and actively seek work. You will be required to maintain records related to your job search and to provide those records to the state upon request.
How do I file a claim?
The easiest way to apply for unemployment in Florida is to apply for unemployment benefits online. You can also apply by phone by calling 1-800-204-2418. Applications by mail are available at Florida One Stop Career Centers.
Other benefits for low-income families
Low-income families who are eligible for unemployment benefits may also want to research their eligibility for two other government programs: food stamps and Medicaid coverage.
