Desperate Florida Citizens Seek Unemployment Benefits and Updates

Unemployment Rate Edges Towards 12 Percent, a 35-Year Record

Jan Corn
Florida's unemployment rate is the highest in 35 years, news that didn't come as a surprise to many living in the state, struggling to find work. There is some dispute about the actual unemployment figures, but the Florida Sun Sentinel lists the unemployment rate in Florida at 11.9 percent. To give some perspective to that figure, it hasn't been this high since the strong recession of 1974 - and it may top out at over 12 percent before the worst is over.

The information strikes hard. Like others across the country, we have close relatives and friends who live in Florida. The dismal news didn't come as a total surprise since many of those we know had told us about being laid off from work, demoted or fired. Some had been employed by the same companies for years. They are seeking help to get by, never expecting to go so long without work. Some have been looking for months with no guarantee of an extension in unemployment benefits, although there is a glimmer of hope about that - if the House of Representatives acts quickly.

Updates and Relief for Those Seeking Unemployment Benefits

As dismal - and alarming - as Florida unemployment figures are, there may be a bit of relief in sight. If the Senate's proposed extension to unemployment benefits (awaiting House approval) goes through, those who are desperately going out on job interviews and trying to find work could get some compensation. There is no guarantee of this but at least there is potential relief on the horizon.

Florida has lost a staggering 926,100 jobs since 2007. Although job losses may be slowing down, Florida unemployment rates are predicted to top 12 percent by this summer. The unemployed need help.

How to Get Florida Unemployment Benefits and Updates

Those seeking to file for regular or emergency unemployment benefits can do so at the Florida Internet Claims Filing System, found here . Applications must be completed within 72 hours after starting the application process. Applicants should allow up to an hour to complete the claim form and be sure and receive a confirmation number. Keep in mind that any extensions to unemployment benefits could be forthcoming and check for updates about that.

For those who have never applied for Florida unemployment benefits, the date when an application is completed will determine the date when benefits begin. Those without Internet access can also call by phone to get help. That number is 1-800-204-2418 and can be accessed from 8 -5 (eastern time). A One Stop job placement service is also available at the site, with links to potential Florida job resources here.

Will Legislators Pass the Unemployment Extension for Benefits Quickly?

Many unemployed Floridians are certainly hoping that the House lets the extension go through quickly. Of course, it could be held up in wrangling and debates about differences. But with a Florida unemployment rate which hasn't been topped for 35 years, let's hope that there is some aid in sight for Florida citizens who desperately want jobs and are struggling to make ends meet.

Sources:
Florida's Unemployment Rate at 35 Year High : here
State of Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, Unemployment information, here
Florida Internet Claims Filing System, found here
One Stop Florida Job Placement services, here

Published by Jan Corn

I've had extensive experience with DIY and home renovation projects, particularly after buying a home that was in need of repair. As the daughter of a builder, I'd learned a few things when helping my fathe...  View profile

58 Comments

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  • HOW CAN ANYONE HAVE AN EXCUSE FOR THIS NEW SOLUTIO7/16/2010

    Give the unemployed 15,000.00 each if are CURRENTLY ON one of the first 4 Tiers. Not the ones who have been receiving it for OVER TWO YEARS those are just lazy pepole. This would allow them to pay off some bills, save their homes, and have a new start on life. It also saves the US big money figure it up...compare their extended benefits after 99 weeks they are MORE money than this solution would cost the US...I AM LEAVING IT UP TO YOU ALL TO COPY AND PASTE THIS AND SEND IT TO THE CONTRESS AND SENATORS I AM TO TIRED FROM POSTING IT EVERY OTHER PLACE I CAN SO DO IT TO HELP YOURSELF AND HEY IT SAVES THEM MONEY AND THAT WAS THEIR MAIN CONCERN HOW CAN THEY REFUSE THIS IDEA? IT SAVES THEM TONS OF MONEY THE MAIN THING THEY TELL IS IS HOLDING UP THE EXTENTIONS SO WHAT EXCUSE CAN THEY NOW USE?

  • Chad6/22/2010

    This is really bad. The only reason why I am on unemployment is because of medical reasons. I lost my CDL because of it and now trying to find a job is like pulling a tooth from a rabit dog. I didn't ask for this, I would rather be working. Yet here I sit trying to figure out what I am going to have to sell next just to try and get food in my house for my three kids. Yes my wife works but her income isn't enough to make ands meet. Whatever happened to the fairness in this country. We have worked for this and these tightwads are now taking it from us. Why so they can go eat out and spend a hundred dollars on a dinner? What happen to taking care of our own people. Outsorcing is taking jobs away from the people not helping them. Cheaper labor yeah but than what is to happen to those people out there that need a job, but these companies that are still here in the states don't hire you because you are on unemployment. I had a job lost it due to medical and now because I had to take unemplo

  • Gabrielle Rice5/13/2010

    This is sad, but like the helpful information at the end.

  • Catherine Dagger3/29/2010

    Scary times all round...

  • Patti Walden3/22/2010

    Well done article.

  • Beck3/21/2010

    Live in Florida and is one of "them" suffering a Layoff. Took 2 months to receive first benefit from unemployment, and no jobs on the horizon. Stay away from the Florida Panhandle, there is nothing here!

  • Elle3/20/2010

    sad

  • Sylvia Cochran3/20/2010

    Unemployment is hitting hard; politicians and special interest groups see jobs as 'collateral damage' in their efforts to pass legislation. They have no idea what it looks like from the inside looking out.

  • carole3/20/2010

    so far no tier 5 has been added please go to change.org and sign the petitions for the 99ers causes. email nancy pelose at americanvoices@mail.house.gov we need a tier 5 there is a video on u-tube at-- http://tinyurl.com/ye956rd call your state reps. get the word out they are not going to tell anyone.do recearch. tell everyone you know.post on face book- twitter- all of them spread the word. april 5th is coming. and so is the long line to the food banks if there are any left !!!!!

  • Kristie Leong M.D.3/20/2010

    Very discouraging for people in Florida. :-(

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