Am I eligible for unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Am I eligible for unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic?
See full answerEach state sets its own unemployment insurance benefits eligibility guidelines, but you usually qualify if you:
- Are unemployed through no fault of your own. In most states, this means you have to have separated from your last job due to a lack of available work.
- Meet work and wage requirements. You must meet your state’s requirements for wages earned or time worked during an established period of time referred to as a “base period.” (In most states, this is usually the first four out of the last five completed calendar quarters before the time that your claim is filed.)
- Meet any additional state requirements. Find details of your own state’s program.
What is the Pandemic Emergengy Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program that was implemented due to COVID-19?
See full answerUnder the CARES Act states are permitted to extend unemployment benefits by up to 13 weeks under the new Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program. PEUC benefits are available for weeks of unemployment beginning after your state implements the new program and ending with weeks of unemployment ending on or before December 31, 2020. The program covers most individuals who have exhausted all rights to regular unemployment compensation under state or federal law and who are able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work as defined by state law. Importantly, the CARES Act gives states flexibility in determining whether you are “actively seeking work” if you are unable to search for work because of COVID-19, including because of illness, quarantine, or movement restrictions.
Who is most at risk of the COVID-19 disease?
Older adults are more likely to get severely ill from COVID-19. More than 81% of COVID-19 deaths occur in people over age 65. The number of deaths among people over age 65 is 80 times higher than the number of deaths among people aged 18-29.
How can I receive unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 crisis?
To receive unemployment insurance benefits, you need to file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. Depending on the state, claims may be filed in person, by telephone, or online.
How does your age affect your chances of getting a job?
Employer perceptions about age do often influence hiring decisions. When there is a large applicant pool, as there is for many jobs, it can be hard to prove your age was held against you, because there are many candidates who apply for every job.
How to look younger for a job interview?
You can also reach out to friends and family who are younger than you. Along the same lines, consider your hairstyle when cultivating a more youthful appearance. Talk to a stylist about a more youthful cut that is still age appropriate, if you’re interested in changing your look.
What to tell employers about older job seekers?
Employers may have concerns about the willingness of older workers to take direction from younger supervisors. You can reassure employers by sharing examples of how you have thrived under the direction of younger managers. Your opening may come when asked about your ideal supervisor .
Is it legal for employers to discriminate based on age?
Alison founded CareerToolBelt.com and has been an expert in the field for more than 20 years. It’s not legal (or ethical) for employers to discriminate against job candidates based on age. 1 However, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. Employer perceptions about age do often influence hiring decisions.
