Connecticut Unemployment Benefit Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for unemployment benefits in Connecticut, you must meet several requirements:
Monetary Eligibility:
- Earned sufficient wages: You must have earned a minimum amount of wages (base period wages) in the 12 to 18 months prior to filing your claim. This amount varies depending on the quarter you worked. You can find the specific amount required on the CT Department of Labor website.
- Partial unemployment: If you are partially unemployed (working reduced hours or earning less than your usual wage), you may still be eligible for benefits if your earnings fall below a certain threshold.
Non-Monetary Eligibility:
- Totally or partially unemployed: You must be unemployed through no fault of your own. This means you lost your job due to reasons beyond your control, such as layoff, plant closure, or lack of work.
- Actively seeking work: You must be actively searching for full-time work and be able to accept an offer of suitable work. This requires maintaining a job search log and participating in job search activities.
- Mentally and physically able to work: You must be physically and mentally able to work. Any limitations must be documented by a medical professional.
- Legally authorized to work: You must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Available for work: You must be available for work during regular working hours and be able to accept an offer of suitable work.
Additional Requirements:
- File your claim: You must file your claim for unemployment benefits within one week of your last day of work.
- Weekly claims: You must file weekly claims for benefits to continue receiving payments.
- Attend appointments: You may be required to attend appointments with the CT Department of Labor to discuss your job search and eligibility for benefits.
Here are some helpful resources for Connecticut unemployment benefits:
- CT Department of Labor Unemployment Insurance website: https://portal.ct.gov/dol/unemployment-benefits
- Unemployment Benefits booklet: https://portal.ct.gov/dol/unemployment-benefits
- Claimant’s Guide to UI: https://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/progsupt/unemplt/claimant-guide/eligibility.htm
- Knowledge base: https://portal.ct.gov/dol/knowledge-base/categories/unemployment/eligibility
Please note: This information is intended as a general overview and may not be comprehensive. It is important to review the official CT Department of Labor website for the latest information and to confirm your eligibility for benefits.