WHAT IS UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE (UI)?
Unemployment Insurance (UI) is a joint state-federal program that provides cash benefits to eligible workers. Each state administers a separate UI program, but all states follow the same guidelines established by federal law.
In Oklahoma, UI benefits are designed to provide temporary financial assistance to unemployed workers who meet the requirements of Oklahoma law. The program is funded by employers who pay state and federal unemployment taxes.
These benefits are intended to provide temporary financial assistance to eligible workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own, while they look for another job.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR Oklahoma UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE?
Each state sets its own guidelines for eligibility for UI benefits, 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 a set period of time called a "base period." (In most states, this is usually the first four out of the last five completed calendar quarters prior to the time that your claim is filed.)
- Meet any additional state requirements. Find details of your own state's program by using our Unemployment Benefits Finder tool.
HOW DO I APPLY for Oklahoma UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE?
To receive UI benefits, you need to file a claim with the UI program in the state where you worked.
- You should contact your state's UI program as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. Find your state's UI program to file your claim either in person, by telephone, or online.
- Generally, you should file your claim with the state where you worked. If you worked in a state other than the one where you now live, or if you worked in multiple states, your state UI agency can provide information about how to file your claim with other states.
- When you file a claim, you will be asked for certain information, such as addresses and dates of your former employment. To make sure your claim is not delayed, be sure to give complete and correct information.
- It generally takes two to three weeks after you file your claim to receive your first benefit check. Some states require a one-week waiting period; this means that you will not receive compensation for the first week that you are eligible.
HOW DO I STAY ELIGIBLE for Oklahoma UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE?
Generally, states require the following in order to maintain weekly eligibility:
- File weekly or biweekly claims, usually by mail or phone.
- Be able to work, available to work, and actively seek work each week you claim benefits.
- Report any earnings from work you had during the week(s). States have different rules for how much money you can earn while receiving benefits.
- Report any job offers or job offers you decline during the week.
You will find help in your job search at your local American Job Center. They have a variety of services free of charge. Staff there can:
- Help you decide on a career path
- Evaluate your skills
- Help with your resume
- Help you look for jobs or get training
WHAT IF I AM DENIED for Oklahoma UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE?
Each state UI Program makes its own decisions about workers' eligibility for benefits. There are many reasons for
denying benefit payments; some of the most common are:
- Voluntarily quitting a job without good cause
- Being fired for misconduct
- Not being able or available to work
- Refusing an offer of suitable work
- Making a false statement to obtain benefits
If you are disqualified or denied benefits, you have the right to file an appeal. Your employer may also appeal a determination if they disagree with it. Find out more about your UI program in your state.
HOW LONG WILL Oklahoma UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS LAST?
In general, benefits are based on a percentage of an individual's earnings over a recent 52-week period - up to a state maximum amount.
- Benefits are generally available for up to 26 weeks in most states
- Additional weeks of benefits may be available during times of high unemployment
- Some states provide fewer weeks and a few provide more
You can visit the Comparison of State UI Laws at State UI Laws for additional information.
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