Here are some common questions about Alabama unemployment benefits.
How much is Alabama unemployment?
Benefits per week range from a minimum of $45 to a maximum of $275 and are calculated based on your base period earnings. Estimate your weekly benefit amount using the Alabama unemployment calculator.
How do I file for unemployment in Alabama?
You can choose to file online, or you can use the automated voice system and file over the phone. Learn how to apply for Alabama unemployment benefits.
What information do I need to file a claim?
You will need your Social Security number, the name and address of your most recent employer, and the dates of your employment. Additionally, a driver’s license or state-issued ID card number will be needed for identity verification.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, your work authorization number must be provided.
When should I apply for Alabama unemployment benefits?
You should file immediately after becoming unemployed. Your claim will be effective the Sunday preceding the day you file for benefits, and your claim will be effective for 365 days.
Who is eligible for Alabama unemployment?
To be eligible for unemployment benefits in Alabama, you must have lost your job through no fault of your own and meet the state’s work and wage requirements. Specifically, you must have earned enough wages during your “base period” and meet ongoing eligibility criteria, including the Alabama work search requirements. You must also accept any suitable job offer. Certain circumstances like quitting your job voluntarily or being terminated for misconduct may disqualify you from receiving benefits.
Does Alabama unemployment have a waiting week?
Yes, Alabama unemployment has a waiting week. This means that you will not receive benefits for the first week that you are unemployed, even if you are otherwise eligible. The waiting week is the first payable week on your claim, and it is required by law. You must still file a weekly certification during your waiting week, but you will not receive a benefit payment for that week.
Can I receive benefits if I am self-employed or an independent contractor?
No. During the COVID pandemic, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) assisted self-employed workers, but those extended benefits are no longer available. All extended benefits established by the CARES Act expired in 2021.
How long will it take to receive my first payment?
Once your claim is processed, you should receive your first payment within two to three weeks. However, this timeframe can vary if there are issues during the claims process. If you file an appeal, you should continue to file your weekly certifications while you wait for a decision.
How long does Alabama unemployment last?
The number of weeks you can receive benefits depends on your base period earnings and the unemployment rate in Alabama. Generally, you will qualify for a set number of full benefit weeks ranging from 14-20 weeks.
The maximum amount allowable for the benefit year is based on the unemployment rate. If you return to work or if you have deductible income for any week, you may draw reduced payments and increase the total possible length of time that you can draw. The total amount that you can draw for the year is the maximum benefit amount shown on your monetary determination.
Can I file an appeal if my claim is denied?
Yes. If your claim for benefits is denied, you have the right to file an appeal. You must file your appeal in writing within 15 calendar days from the date of the notice of the determination. You can file your appeal online, by mail, or by fax. During the appeal process, you may be asked to provide additional information or attend a hearing. It is important to follow all instructions provided by the appeals process to ensure that your case is heard and decided fairly.
What are the Alabama unemployment monetary eligibility requirements?
You must have earned wages in at least two quarters of your base period, which is the first four quarters (12 months) of the last five completed quarters from the date of your claim. The total of your base period earnings must be equal to or exceed one and a half times your highest quarter earnings.
Can I receive benefits if I quit my job?
Generally, you must meet certain requirements to be eligible, including being able and available to work, actively seeking full-time work, and being out of work due to no fault of your own. If you voluntarily quit your job, you must provide proof of a good work-connected reason. If you are terminated or discharged, your employer must provide proof of a work-connected cause according to Alabama law.
Can I work part time and still receive unemployment benefits?
It depends on how much you earn. If you earn less than your weekly benefit amount, you can receive a reduced payment for the benefit week.
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