Got let go in October and my severance will run out in a few months - when should I apply for unemployment insurance?
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If you’re in CA last day you were employed (that’s what I did). If NYC after last severance payment as mentioned above. CA and NY are very different when It comes to unemployment benefits.
I had applied by phone (robo questions) at least a month in advance so that you’re set up and on file. Set up account and ID Me with NY DOL. You will receive documents in the mail to complete and mail back. Another doc I had to fax back. Doing all this work would have been easier on their website but I guess they gave their reasons. Once you’re approved they will inform you to set up your bank acct to certify for weekly benefits for 26 wks. Be prepared to possibly meet with a counselor in person plus attend zoom meetings and assigned workshops. They will ask you to update your weekly job searches and activities/workshops on their website. Good luck!
@OP If you're NY based, per the Dept of Labor, you can file right after you receive your last severance payment.
@ag The person should qualify if they were truly laid off vs opted in to the severance agreement. If the latter, that is considered a voluntary termination and most likely not eligible for unemployment in most states.
This is helpful, thank you!
I don’t know if you’ll qualify.
@a1 agree. The application process is easy and the approval process is very quick.., about a week. Cobra was also easy and seamless. When you start collecting, be sure to keep a weekly log in Excel of your job search efforts. Unemployment office may ask for this. It does not to have to be extremely detailed. I just listed the companies I applied to and what stage of the interview process I was in with each. You also will have to certify weekly online that you are actively looking for a job. I hope this helps.
I would apply on the last day that your severance period covers. Or you might have to wait until your first official day of unemployment. But if I remember correctly, there is a one week waiting period during which you don’t get paid. And that week starts from your application date, not necessarily your last paid day. Again, I’m not 100% sure if I am remembering correctly and/or if it varies from state to state. You should be able to look the information up online. Good luck!