Friday, April 19, 2024

How To Draw Unemployment In Kentucky

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Assuming the claimant has sufficient wage credits to establish a claim, he or she may be qualified to receive benefits if they voluntarily left their employment with good cause attributable to the employment and there are no other eligibility issues present.

In Kentucky, if you quit your job, you must have done so for just cause. When you apply to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training , it will verify that you quit your job and request information proving the situation falls under the just cause requirement.

How To Apply For Both Programs

If you are eligible to receive both unemployment compensation and Social Security, then you will need to apply separately for each benefit in the same manner as you would if you were only applying for one of them.

Unemployment insurance is administered at the state level and each state has different rules and processes. The Department of Labor provides contact information and websites for all state unemployment insurance agencies. You should refer to your state’s website for the most up-to-date information about how to apply for unemployment benefits.

Social Security, on the other hand, is a federally funded program operated by the U.S. Social Security Administration. The fastest way to complete your application for Social Security benefits is to do so online.

Keep in mind that you donât have to wait to begin receiving one benefit before filing for the other. You can file for both benefits at the same time. Also, remember that because each benefit is provided by a different agency, the time frame for receiving payments after you file will vary.

Do I Qualify For Unemployment Benefits

Kentucky residents must meet the following requirements to claim unemployment benefits:

  • You’ve lost your income or had your hours drastically reduced through no fault of your own.
  • You must be willing to work and actively seeking work .
  • Your past earnings must meet certain standards.
  • Kentucky has waived the work-search requirement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also taken the unprecedented step of opening unemployment benefits to independent contractors and self-employed workers, who are normally not eligible.

    The state evaluates your earnings during a base period — the first four of the last five completed quarters before you applied for unemployment. The base period for those who apply in March is October 2018 to September 2019. For those who apply in April, it’s January to December 2019.

    Your wages during the base period must check all these boxes to qualify:

  • You must have earned at least $1,500 in one quarter.
  • You must have earned at least $1,500 total, across the other three quarters.
  • Your total base period earnings must be at least 1.5 times your earnings in your highest-earning quarter.
  • Your total wages in your final two quarters must be at least $312 to meet the requirement that your earnings in those quarters be at least eight times the minimum weekly benefit amount.
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    Contacting Your Local Job Center

    Local job centers — sometimes called One-Stop Career Centers or American Job Centers –can help you with cover letters, resumes, and job search efforts. Some job centers may provide assistance in filing for unemployment benefits. You may be required to register with a job center as part of your ongoing obligation to look for work while collecting benefits.

    Contact your job center to find out about services and availability. Although some job centers provide unemployment services , others offer only job search assistance. And, some centers are closed, have limited hours, or are available only online due to the coronavirus pandemic. Call or email your local job center to find out about their offerings.

    Who Qualifies For Unemployment

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    Unemployed residents of Kentucky must fall under the qualifications for unemployment in order to be considered for benefits. Most qualification factors depend on the reason why the applicant is currently unemployed as well as their current capability to seek out new employment. Kentucky applicants who qualify for unemployment must:

    • Have earned at least a minimum amount in wages before becoming unemployed.
    • Be terminated through no fault of their own, as defined by Kentucky law
    • Be able and available to work and actively seeking employment
    • Have earned at least $750 in one quarter of the base period.
    • Have earned at least $750 outside of their highest paid of the base period.
    • Have earned at least 1.5 times their wages in the highest paid quarter of the base period
    • Have wages in the last two quarters of the base period that are at least eight times the weekly benefit amount.

    Kentucky does allow some exceptions to these qualification requirements. If an applicant is temporarily unable to take on full time work due to an illness or injury, being forced to move or relocate due to domestic violence or is currently supplying full-time care to a sick or disabled family member, he or she may still hold eligibility for EDD.

    The state of Kentucky does not grant exceptions to those who are unable to seek full time or part time employment due to incarceration or legal restrictions.

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    Eligibility Requirements For Kentucky Unemployment Benefits

    The Kentucky OET determines eligibility for workers claiming benefits in the state. You must meet the following three eligibility requirements to collect unemployment benefits:

    • You must have earned at least a minimum amount in wages before you were unemployed.
    • You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, as defined by Kentucky law.
    • You must be able and available to work, and you must be actively seeking employment.

    Can I Draw Ui If I Am Fired

    Assuming you have sufficient wage credits to establish a claim, you may be qualified to receive benefits if you were discharged for reasons other than misconduct or dishonesty in connection with the work and there are no other eligibility issues present.

    Those fired due to excessive absences, insubordination or tardiness are considered to have engaged in misconduct and are ineligible for benefits.

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    Unemployment Benefits Impact On Social Security & Vice Versa

    As mentioned previously, the state of Minnesota is the only state in the union that currently offsets the unemployment benefits of those who are already receiving Social Security income. If you live in this state, your unemployment benefits may be reduced by an amount equal to half of your Social Security benefits.

    But, collecting unemployment benefits never has any type of impact on the amount of Social Security you receive. If you take Social Security at age 62 and are still working, then your earned income can reduce your Social Security benefit, but because unemployment benefits are considered to be unearned income, there is no impact.

    Always Check With Your States Unemployment Office

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    The rules that govern unemployment benefits vary by state, so be sure to check with your stateâs unemployment office if you have any questions. Because of the increased number of people eligible for unemployment benefits, call centers could be busy and you might find yourself on hold for a long time while trying to reach a representative by phone. You can save yourself some time by finding out if your state provides an email address or a live chat service to answer questions or by seeing if they have a list of Frequently Asked Questions on their website.

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    Are You Available And Actively Searching For Work

    To keep collecting unemployment benefits, you must be able to work, available to work, and looking for employment. If you’re offered a suitable position, you must accept it.

    Whether a position is suitable depends on a number of factors, including how similar the job is to your previous employment, how much you will be paid, the working conditions, and the skills, experience, and training required for the position. The longer you are unemployed, the more likely you will have to consider jobs that pay less and require less skill than your previous position.

    You must engage in a good faith search for work. You must also register for work with the Kentucky Career Center. The Center may also ask you to provide information about potential employers you’ve contacted.

    How Much Will I Receive

    Q: How much can I receive from unemployment insurance?

    A: Kentucky’s benefit range is between $39 and $552 per week. Applicants can log into their account 24 hours after filing a claim and view their benefit amount on the “account summary” page.

    Q: Is there any way to get an idea of what my weekly benefit amount will be?

    A: The state has a calculator on its website. This is only an estimate.

    Q: How does the state determine how much I receive in benefits?

    A: The amount unemployed workers receive is based on their past wages.

    Q: Ive heard something about an extra $600. How is that working?

    A: $600 will be added to each persons total weekly payment amount, through July 31, thanks to the federal CARES Act. For example, if your normal weekly benefit amount is $250, youll receive a total of $850. However, state officials say youll receive these amounts in separate payments. This increase went into effect the week of March 29. Kentucky is expected to start sending out these payments the evening of April 9. These payments will be retroactive.

    Q: For how many weeks can I receive unemployment?

    A: 39 weeks, which is an increase from the usual 26 weeks.

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    How To Apply For Unemployment Benefits In Ky

    In Kentucky, you may file a claim online or by telephone. You file online at the Unemployment Insurance Claims System. The link is only available M-F from 7:00 AM 7:00 PM EST and Sunday from 10:00 AM 9:00 PM EST. You cannot file a claim on Saturdays.

    At the same site, you will find the telephone numbers so that you may file a claim by telephone. You can file Monday through Friday between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM EST. This option is suitable for those without an Internet connection or who need assistance in Spanish.

    You can request your bi-weekly benefit check by telephone. Call 3MY-KYUI or 369-5984 .

    However you file your initial claim for benefits, you will need some information ready. You will need:

    • Your social security number
    • The beginning and ending date of all jobs you have held over the past 18 month
    • The correct name, address and telephone number for any job you worked over the 18 months prior to the date you filed your claim.
    • Bank routing number and account information if you plan to use Direct Deposit

    You will find additional on how to file a claim online in the Unemployment handbook.

    How Can I Extend Unemployment In Kentucky

    Images Of How To Draw Unemployment In Ky

    When it comes to receiving an unemployment compensation extension, the state of Kentucky often focuses more on the current job environment than on its unemployment applicants. In many situations, applicants who are eligible to receive an unemployment benefit extension will automatically roll over into that extension if one is available. However, in order to be sure that you are not left without your benefits, it is always best to to understand what type of unemployment extensions are available.

    Federal unemployment extensions typically fall into two categories:

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    A Guide To Unemployment Benefits In Kentucky

    Unemployment Insurance is an employer-paid insurance program that provides you with benefits when youre separated from a job at no fault of your own. UI benefits help cover the gap in lost wages while you are between jobs. The benefits are not based on need, and theyre paid out in weekly payments as long as you meet eligibility requirements and report on a weekly basis. If you were let go from your job, youre experiencing significantly reduced hours, or youre out of a job due to a company closure, you’re likely eligible for UI benefits.

    Newly unemployed?

    Several online serviceslike FlexJobs, 360training, or MyPerfectResumecan help you find work-from-home jobs, build a better resume, or earn training certifications.

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    Contacting The Kentucky Career Center

    In response to the coronavirus outbreak, some states are imposing restrictions on people gathering in public locations. This may affect your ability to access physical offices of the the Kentucky Career Center in person. Check Kentucky’s unemployment insurance agency website for more information. In some states, you can even contact the unemployment agency by snail mail. You can find the contact information for the Kentucky Career Center in Unemployment Insurance: Rights and Responsibilities . The handbook lists the addresses and phone numbers to reach the Kentucky Career Center if you have questions or you want to follow up on your claim for unemployment benefits.

    Learn About Receiving An Unemployment Extension In Kentucky

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    Kentucky Unemployment Extensions Information

    In the state of Kentucky, there are specific cases in which an unemployment compensation extension may be made available for individuals who need more than initial 26 weeks of benefits. Extensions are set into effect when the states unemployment rate reaches peak levels, leaving many applicants wondering how to get an unemployment extension. Much like the initial claim process, there are specific requirements an applicant must meet in order to be eligible to receive a federal unemployment extension.

    In order to better understand the unemployment extension process, please take the time to review the following sections:

    Kentucky Unemployment Resources

    Find Out How to Appeal Denied Benefits

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    Can I Appeal A Denial Of Unemployment Benefits In Kentucky

    If the Kentucky Career Center denies you unemployment insurance benefits, you can appeal. After you file your initial claim for unemployment benefits, the Kentucky Career Center will send you a written determination of your eligibility for benefits and, if it finds you eligible, how much you will receive in benefits. But, if the Kentucky Career Center finds that you are not eligible for benefits or grants you benefits in a lower amount than you believe you are entitled to, you can appeal that decision. And, if the Kentucky Career Center finds you eligible to receive benefits, your ex-employer can appeal that decision.

    If you want to appeal the Kentucky Career Center decision, check the Kentucky Career Center website and handbook for:

    • Any forms and instructions for filing your appeal
    • The deadline for filing your appeal

    Tips For A Better Kentucky Unemployment Benefits Experience

  • Be accurate and complete, filling in all the information asked for in your claim. Failure to do so may result in a delay in getting your benefits.
  • Stay organized with a calendar marked with important dates, including the day you file your claim, when your eligibility review is happening, your next career counselor appointment, when you need to file your Kentucky unemployment weekly claims, etc. Delays in benefits are often a result of missing important dates and deadlines.
  • Register for work using Focus Career before requesting you first benefit payment.
  • Maintain accurate records of all job search activities to be submitted with your eligibility review.
  • Avoid calling the help line on Mondays, when wait times are longest. Choose a date later in the week for quicker service.
  • Keep your email active and check it often. You are required to submit a valid email address. This is the easiest way for the Kentucky unemployment department to contact you.
  • If someone from the Kentucky unemployment office reaches out, communicate with them as soon as possible.
  • Keep your UI claim information, including your account pin, secure. Dont allow any other person to access your account or make a claim on your behalf under and circumstance.
  • Return documents quickly using the document upload option within the online Kentucky unemployment claim filing system.
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    What Happens If I Am Laid Off

    In a tough economic climate, many employers have to make tough choices about their staff, including who is necessary to the company and who to let go. If laid off from a Kentucky state employer, you can collect unemployment benefits from the states Department of Labor. However, if there is any question as to whether you were laid off or fired, you may have to show proof of the reason for your job separation.

    Unemployment For Reduced Work Hours

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    If your employer has reduced the number of hours you can work or shut down completely due to COVID-19, you may be able to file an unemployment claim. Kentucky unemployment insurance provides benefit payments for partial wage replacement to workers that have lost their job or have had their hours of work reduced, through no fault of their own.

    Workers who are unemployed temporarily because of COVID-19 and are expected to return to work with their employer within a few weeks, or some other defined short period of time, are not required to actively seek work each week. However, they must remain available and able and ready to work, or return to work, during their unemployment for each week that benefits are claimed and must meet all other eligibility criteria. Individuals who meet eligibility requirements can receive benefits that range from $40-$450 per week.

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    Are Coronavirus Unemployment Benefits Still Available

    As of September 6, 2021, the answer is no. The special pandemic programs Congress created to help those who have lost work due to COVID-19 have now expired. These programs included:

      • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance , which made benefits available to those who wouldn’t qualify for traditional unemployment benefits, including the self-employed, gig workers, those who have already used up their state benefits, and those who don’t meet the work history eligibility requirement in their state.

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