Laid off, no final check yet. How to handle this and apply for unemployment?
Hey everyone, I just got laid off from my job and I'm in a tough spot. It's been a couple weeks now and I still haven't received my final paycheck. I'm thinking about applying for unemployment, but I'm not sure where to start. Has anyone else been through this? Any advice on how to handle the situation with my former employer and navigate the unemployment process?
24 comments
Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve unemployment claim phone issues, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glIaSoy9DlM
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Camila Castillo
Man, that sucks. I've been there before. First things first, you need to contact your ex-employer ASAP about that final check. It's illegal for them to withhold it. If they don't respond, file a wage claim with your state's labor department. As for unemployment, start the application process right away. Don't wait for your final check to come through. The sooner you apply, the sooner you might get benefits. Good luck!
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Samuel Robinson
Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely reach out to my old boss today. Do you know how long the unemployment application process usually takes?
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Camila Castillo
It can vary depending on your state, but generally it takes about 2-3 weeks to process an application. Just make sure you have all your employment info ready when you apply. And don't forget to file your weekly claims once you're approved!
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Brianna Muhammad
This is solid advice 💯 I'd also recommend keeping a record of all communication with your ex-employer about the final check. Could come in handy if things get messy.
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JaylinCharles
ugh, the system is so broken. i've been waiting on unemployment for MONTHS. good luck getting anyone on the phone 🙄
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Eloise Kendrick
Ikr? It's like they purposely make it difficult to discourage people from claiming benefits. The whole thing needs an overhaul.
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Lucas Schmidt
Have you tried calling right when they open? I heard that's the best time to get through.
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JaylinCharles
tried everything. early morning, late afternoon, even tried faxing (yes, FAXING in 2023 🤦♂️). nothign works
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Freya Collins
Hey, I actually found a method to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI
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LongPeri
Sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?
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Oscar O'Neil
$20 just to talk to someone? That's ridiculous. The system is so messed up.
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Freya Collins
I know it sounds sketchy, but I swear it worked for me. After weeks of trying to get through, I was desperate. It's not ideal to pay, but it saved me so much time and stress.
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Sara Hellquiem
I've heard about services like this. Kinda sad that we need to resort to this, but if it works, it works. Thanks for sharing!
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Charlee Coleman
Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this situation: 1. Final Paycheck: - Check your state laws for deadlines on final paychecks - Document all attempts to contact your employer - If no response, file a wage claim with your state's labor department 2. Unemployment Application: - Apply online through your state's unemployment website - Have ready: Social Security number, employment history, reason for unemployment - Be honest and accurate to avoid delays 3. While Waiting: - Start job hunting immediately - Consider temporary or gig work - Look into local food banks or assistance programs if needed 4. If You're Denied: - You have the right to appeal - Gather any supporting documents - Consider seeking legal advice Remember, persistence is key. Don't give up if you hit roadblocks. Good luck!
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Samuel Robinson
Wow, thank you so much for this detailed guide! It's really helpful to have all this info in one place. I'll definitely be referring back to this as I go through the process.
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Liv Park
This is great info! I'd add: make sure to file for unemployment in the state where you worked, not necessarily where you live (if they're different).
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Leeann Blackstein
am i the only 1 who thinks its sus that the company hasnt paid the final check yet? 🤔 might be worth looking into your rights, OP. some companies try to pull fast ones when laying people off.
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Ryder Greene
Just went through this myself. My advice: document EVERYTHING. Every call, email, letter. It'll help if you need to escalate things later. Also, check if your state has any covid-related extensions or extra benefits. Some are still in place.
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Carmella Fromis
This! 👆 Documentation saved my butt when my ex-employer tried to contest my unemployment claim. CYA always!
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Theodore Nelson
Have you considered looking into gig work while you wait for things to get sorted out? It's not ideal, but it could help bridge the gap. I did Uber Eats for a while between jobs and it helped keep me afloat.
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Samuel Robinson
That's not a bad idea, actually. I hadn't thought about gig work. Did you have any issues with it affecting your unemployment benefits?
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Theodore Nelson
It can affect your weekly benefit amount, but in my experience, having some income was better than none. Just make sure to report any earnings when you file your weekly claims. It's all about finding the right balance.
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AaliyahAli
pro tip: if u cant get thru on the phone, try reaching out on social media. sometimes the social media teams can escalate ur case. worked for me when i was stuck in limbo for weeks.
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