Workplace Fairness

Am I eligible to receive benefits?

You must be totally or partially unemployed through no fault of your own, and you must have earned sufficient wages in your base period (the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before the start date of your claim, or alternatively the last 4 quarters). Also, you must be able and available for full-time work.

How do I apply for benefits in Georgia?

You can apply online http://www.dol.state.ga.us/js/file_unemployment_insurance_claim.htm, over the phone, or in person.

How much will I receive?

Your weekly benefit amount will be based on the amount of wages you earned in your base period. Currently, the minimum weekly benefit amount is $44, and the maximum weekly benefit amount is $330.

How long will I receive these benefits?

The length of time that you will receive benefits is also based on how much you made during the base period, but not less than 6 weeks and not more than 26 weeks.

After I start receiving benefits, what do I have to do to remain eligible?

You must continue to file weekly. Also, you must continue to be able and available for full-time work. You must actively seek employment, while keeping a record of your work search activities (a form to help you do so can be found in the Claimant Handbook). To be actively seeking work, you must contact employers as instructed each week you file for benefits. You must register for work with the Georgia Department of Labor's Employment Service, if so instructed. Finally, you must accept suitable work.

I was turned down for benefits. How do I appeal this decision?

You must appeal within 15 calendar days from the date the decision was mailed to you. Your appeal must be in writing, and it may be submitted by mail, by fax, or in person to a Georgia Department of Labor Career Center. Also, you must keep filing your weekly claims regularly because you will only be paid for weeks you filed if you win your appeal.

For more information on Georgia's unemployment insurance laws:

Visit the Georgia State Website http://www.dol.state.ga.us/js/

Read the Claimant Handbook http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/forms/dol414.pdf