Applying for Unemployment Benefits in Georgia

So you lost your job. It may feel like the end of the world, but most people will go through this experience at least once in their lifetimes. Depending on the reason for the job loss, you may be eligible to make a claim for unemployment benefits. Because it takes time to get the benefit process going, you should not wait to apply-thinking you will find another job soon. Get thee to the nearest unemployment office on the day or the next day after you stop working.

As a rule, your employer will provide you with a separation or termination notice. I hate both those words. Separation sounds painful and termination sounds so final--and evokes visions of Arnold Swartzenager. Let's use "release for new opportunities" instead. Your "released for new opportunities" will state the employer's reason for letting you go. If it says "lack of work" or something similar, this is a good thing. Usually, this is an automatic approval of unemployment benefits (provided you meet all other criteria), a shortened time period for the application process and carries no negative connotations for the next potential employer. If it says anything else, you will have to apply and a determination will be made as to whether or not you will be approved.

When you arrive at the unemployment office, you will be given instructions about how to apply. Come prepared to wait your turn, depending on the location of the office and the number of people currently unemployed, the wait can be long-bring a bottle of water and a snack...or lunch. You may be seen individually or there may be a group information event, depending on how many people are applying and the particular office.

You will be told or shown how to use the Georgia Department Of Labor job listings to seek out new employment. You will be told how the process works and given instructions on how to use the phone and computer based weekly certification process. Once you have applied, you will receive a letter regarding the status of your claim usually within 21 days. When you receive the decision notice, read it carefully. If you have been denied unemployment benefits you do have the right to appeal and you should, if you believe a mistake has been made.

Tips:

· If your "release for new opportunities" is for any reason other than lack of work, that is you were fired for being late for work or some similar reason, you have the right to give your side of the story. This author recommends that you write down your side of the story before you arrive at the unemployment office. Sometimes it is hard to think, when you are stressed, angry and in a strange environment. Go home, think about it, write it down, and then take the written statement with you.

· Be sure to certify online or by phone every Sunday, even if you haven't received your decision notice. This will ensure that you get all the benefit you are entitled to receive.

· Unemployment benefits are designed to be a short-term support mechanism while you are looking for new employment. Don't become comfortable with the "ride." It will end in a maximum of 26 weeks, currently the maximum length of benefits in Georgia. NEWS---President Bush recently signed an emergency unemployment compensation benefits bill (H.R. 2642) making extended benefits available to individuals who have exhausted regular unemployment compensation, but there are restrictions. If you have exhausted your benefits check with your local DOL to determine if extended benefits are available to you.

· Use the Internet to help with your job search, in addition to newspapers. Go to Internet job listings sites, create a search criteria and allow the system to send you job recommendations based on the criteria you have specified. Take a look every day at the new listings. Apply online whenever possible (saving gas these days is a necessity). Save this information, because the DOL will want to know where and when you have applied for work.

· Have a positive attitude about your "release for new opportunities." It may just be an opportunity in the guise of a misfortune. It is important to maintain a positive perspective, because a negative one can potentially find its way into and be the downfall of a job interview. (See my articles "The Gift" and "Be Thankful for Today" to help change your perspective.

· Take a look at my article "Applying for Your First Job Application Tips and Common. Mistakes" to refresh yourself about the interview and job application process. It is easy to forget what is important in the interview, especially when you have been working for some time.

Take it from someone who has worked for many years, in many industries and been looking for work more than once. You have to be your own best advocate and believe in yourself and your abilities. If you let this situation get you down, you may find it turns into a downward spiral that isn't good for you or anyone around you. If you aren't working, you have time to learn. The Internet offers many learning opportunities that are FREE. You just can't beat the price. Who knows, you may even discover a talent or a new type of job that will open up new possibilities. Use your transition to start your own small business, even if it is part-time at first. You will be amazed at how different your life becomes. Entrepreneurship is the word for the day and remember that tomorrow always brings something new.