I have a documented mental illness, and cannot resume the same work…
Q) I am an ex-offender(I served a 4-year sentence at a PA State SCI. Convicted of a felon-1 via “Guilty by Mental Illness”), I am now on 5 years state-supervised probation. I have a documented mental illness and severe hearing loss, and cannot resume the same array of business/work and/or physical/mental functions as I previously had executed. I was/am self-employed full-time since 1987. My PA registered business is named “Covered Bridge Customs” (primarily custom motorcycle painting and sign crafting). I have a valid PA tax number for collecting sales tax (36-300-937). I have no workshop to operate in, as it was sold in year 2011 as part of my home. I only have a small home office where I live in York County. I am currently investigating if I may be eligible for Social Security Disability and Public County Assistance. Otherwise, I am not working, I live with my brother in York, PA, but I am also investigating employment opportunities in order to meet my probation obligations of 20 employment applications per week, and to possibly find a job that I may be able to handle given my disabilities. I do not know what my self-employment business functions/limitations may be or entail since I have no facility to work in, and given any physical/mental restrictions. Can you assist me with information or the qualifications regarding unemployment? Thank you.
A) Social Security offers an online disability application you can complete at your convenience. Apply from the comfort of your home or any location at a time most convenient for you. You do not need to drive to your local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative.http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityssi/apply.html
Due to the fact the each state administrates their unemployment benefit program differently and has different eligibility requirements it’s always best to visit your state website to view that information. After viewing the eligibility requirements you can (on some State’s Unemployment Website) file your claim online.