How to File for Unemployment Benefits in Missouri

If you have recently lost your job you need to file immediately for unemployment benefits. In the state of Missouri the process seems simple but is filled with a few pitfalls that can cause you to either lose your benefits or delay receipt of payments. It is in your own best interest to learn all you can about how the unemployment system works within your own state. While the system is similar in all states, the information here is specifically geared to residents of Missouri.

An unemployment benefits claim in Missouri should be filed as soon as possible after job loss. Especially in times of higher unemployment processing can be delayed.

Filing for Missouri unemployment benefits can be done either online or by phone. Online is easiest but if you want to speak with someone who handles unemployment benefits in Missouri you should choose the phone option where you will be required to call during regular business hours. Information about both unemployment filing options are available from the Missouri Department of Employment Security website.

Filing a Missouri unemployment claim requires that you have some basic information available. You will need your Social Security number, a copy of your last paycheck stub, your mailing address and phone number and your last date of employment. If you will be receiving any compensation or paid vacation time from your employer you will also need that information. Your former employer does not need to be located in Missouri but you do need to be a resident of Missouri to receive Missouri unemployment benefits.

When you file for Missouri unemployment benefits you will be given the option of having your benefits direct deposited into a bank account or having them applied to a debit card issued by Missouri. Each unemployment benefit option has good and bad points.

Having your unemployment benefits directly deposited means that the funds are available to you immediately. You can write a check or withdraw the money from your bank as soon as the unemployment benefits are deposited. The downside of this option is that you are giving access to your personal bank account information. Concerns about identity theft or Missouri taking money back out of the account may or may not be realistic but they may influence your decision about how to receive your unemployment benefits.

If you choose to use the Missouri debit card for your unemployment benefits your card will have the amount due to you placed on it. You can get cash from the card for free at any bank or use it as a debit card whenever you make purchases. You will be able to get cash back on transactions using the Missouri unemployment debit card. The downfall with having your Missouri unemployment benefits put on the debit card is that the cash is not immediately in your bank account if you need to write checks to pay bills. You will need to first go someplace to get cash and then deposit it in your account.

Missouri unemployment benefit payments do not begin immediately. Missouri requires a waiting period before payments begin. If you continue to be unemployed you will receive the unemployment benefits due to you after the waiting period.

It is very important that you respond to any requests for information regarding your unemployment. You may be requested to explain the reason for your termination or provide additional documentation. Failure to respond quickly can cause you to lose your unemployment benefits.

There are several reasons why your Missouri unemployment claim may be denied. Some organizations, such as certain Non-Profits, are not required to participate in Missouri's unemployment program. If they have chosen to opt out of participation then former employees are not covered by Missouri unemployment benefits. Also, employees who voluntarily choose to leave their jobs are not eligible for Missouri unemployment benefits except under certain specific situations.

If you suspect you may not be eligible for Missouri unemployment benefits you should submit a claim anyway. There is no expense to apply and you will be guaranteed you didn't miss a benefit you should have received.