In order to determine eligibility for Florida unemployment compensation, it is necessary to file an application for benefits. Once this application is filed the Florida agency for workforce innovation will determine whether the applicant is eligible to receive unemployment in Florida. Claims can be filed both online and by phone.
Currently, Florida unemployment benefit recipients are eligible to receive up to six months of payments. In addition, claimants may also be eligible to receive additional funds under emergency federal unemployment programs.
Before attempting to file a claim, either online or by phone, be sure to have the names of all employers and associated wages for the past five quarters. The following is detailed information on how to file an unemployment benefits claim in the State of Florida.
File a Florida Unemployment Compensation Claim Online
The state of Florida recommends that all unemployment benefit applicants apply online, as this is the most efficient way to process the claim. The online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days per week.
In order to file a claim online, simply go to the Florida Agency for Workforce innovation’s website and begin the process. Once the application is complete, record the confirmation number provided.
File a Florida Unemployment Compensation Claim by Phone
Florida residents can easily file benefits claims by phone, by calling 1-800-204-2418. The hours of operation for phone center are Monday through Friday 7:30 AM to 7 PM. Saturday hours are from 8 AM to 4 PM.
Be aware that call volumes are highest on Mondays and Tuesdays. Consequently, if unable to get through the line on these days, simply try the call again during business hours on Wednesday through Saturday.
File a Florida Unemployment Compensation Claim at a Career Center
If unable to file online or by phone, Florida residents have a third option to file in person at a career center. Be prepared with all personal information, as well as employer and wage information before attempting to file a claim in a career center.
There are at least 24 career centers in Florida where applicants can file their claim for unemployment compensation. For complete list of all centers, refer to the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation’s website.
Receiving Florida Unemployment Insurance Payments
Once the initial application for Florida unemployment benefits is processed, the applicant will receive a benefit statement in the mail. The statement details the weekly benefit amount and other information about the claim. It normally takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time of the initial claim to receive the first benefits payment. After that, benefits are paid out every other week.
In order to continue receiving benefits every other week, claimants must certify that they are still without work and that they have continued to look for work. This certification may be performed by phone (1-800-204-2418) or online at the agency’s website.
It is very important that all unemployment benefit claimants in the state of Florida continue to search for work and keep a record of all employers contacted, as well as the dates contacted. The agency may require this information, and if it is not available to be provided, claimants risk losing their benefits.
The process for filing Florida unemployment compensation claims is made easy by filing online, by phone, or in person at a career center. All questions regarding Florida unemployment compensation should be directed to the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation.
Source:
Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, "Unemployment Benefits" (accessed 4/19/2010)
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Cheri Pearson - Cheri Pearson is a seasoned freelance journalist who holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of ...
