If you have lost your job because of certain circumstances that are not considered your own fault and are having problems finding work, you might be eligible to claim Tennessee unemployment benefits. This type of insurance coverage is designed to help you offset the loss of wages during the period of job seeking, or until the previous employer can recall you.
The job market is still looking grim and many people are facing long periods where they have no income. During this time, many families are struggling to make ends meet. There are a lot of people searching for jobs in Tennessee and all over the country. If you are without a job and are looking for work you should definitely consider filing a claim for unemployment benefits.
An individual can only receive Tennessee unemployment benefits for a maximum of 26 weeks. During this time, you must be actively looking for a job and you must accept any suitable offers that are presented to you. The maximum benefit amount an unemployed individual can receive is $275 per week. Any additional income during this period must be reported.
Not everyone who is not working can file for a claim. There are certain requirements and a process to determine the eligibility of an individual before he or she receives benefits. Here are some of the basic requirements for eligibility:
- Individuals who were laid off through no fault of their own are eligible
- In some cases, individuals who have had their hours cut are entitled to some benefits
- Your last employer should be covered by this specific type of insurance, you also must have qualifying wages during your time of employment
- It is required that you are physically fit to work during the time that you file a claim
- You should be available to accept job offers that are suitable for you
- You are required to report any income that you receive each week
Residents of Shelby County can visit one of four places in order to file a claim. There are three locations in Memphis and one in Collierville. There is also a Career Center in Nashville. Or, you can file for unemployment online through the Tennessee government website.
Filing online is only available from Sunday to Friday, between 8:00 am – Midnight. Residents can also reach a Career Center for more information through telephone by calling: (615) 253-0800 or 1 (877) 813-0950
Before you file a claim you will need to have certain personal information and documentation ready. This includes your social security number and driver’s license. You will also need to provide your current address, telephone number and details about your previous employer. The Career Center that you go to will need this information so that they can validate your employment with your previous boss as well as the reason for separation.
If you currently reside in Tennessee, yet have previously worked in another state, your claim should be filed against the state where you received your previous wages. Tennessee takes unemployment claims from individuals who have previously worked in the state, yet currently live elsewhere. These claims can be filed through the internet or by telephone. The information that you release in your unemployment insurance claim may be released to other government agencies, as this is required by law.