Unemployment Compensation

Unemployment Compensation

Whether you have been terminated, laid off or forced to quit your job, the average worker can end up in a financial crisis.  . If you lose your job to no fault of your own, unemployment insurance could reduce this economic impact on your life while you look for a new job. Unemployment benefits can help you pay for your groceries, mortgage or rent, and other living expenses while you’re in between jobs. 

Eligibility Requirements for Ohio Unemployment Benefits

To be eligible for unemployment benefits, an employee must become unemployed through no fault of his or her own.  Examples of this would be  a business closing, layoff,  job restructuring or even termination by your employer without just cause.  In addition,  an employee must have completed at least 20 weeks of employment with an employer or employers who have contributed to unemployment during the base period. The base period is defined as the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. You also must have earned a minimum average weekly wage, the amount of which changes each year. 

To qualify for unemployment benefits, you must be totally or partially unemployed at the time of application. You are considered partially unemployed if your employer reduces your work hours and you earn less than the weekly unemployment benefit amount. Bear in mind that you won’t be eligible for unemployment benefits if you left your job voluntarily or were fired because of your own willful misconduct.  However, if you were constructively discharged from your employment, you may be eligible for employment.

It’s best to file an unemployment compensation claim with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) as soon as you lose your job. You can file your application online by going to https://unemploymenthelp.ohio.gov/.  You can also file a claim by telephone by calling 1-877-644-6562.  Based on the information provided by you and your former employer, ODJFS will make a decision regarding your application.   You can obtain an estimate of what your payment may be by clicking http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us/uiben/.

 

Unemployment Compensation Appeals Process

If you’re denied unemployment compensation, you should file an appeal and continue to file claims for any weeks that you are unemployed. You must file an appeal within 21 calendar days of the date the initial determination was issued. 

If you disagree with the redetermination of your initial appeal, you can file a written appeal within 21 calendar days of the date the redetermination was issued. Your case will then be scheduled for an in-person or telephone hearing.

 For the best results, consult with a  lawyer who is familiar with Ohio’s unemployment compensation laws. Melanie Miguel-Courtad has extensive knowledge in Ohio Unemployment Law and will offer an initial free consultation to evaluate your claim and provide guidance on the best way to provide ethical, knowledgeable and zealous representation of your rights in your unemployment claim.  Call (216) 621-2030 or contact us online.

unemployment law