I Have been out on medical leave. Can I get unemployment?

Q) I have been out on medical leave with no pay since November 14,2014. I just started that job the end of September, taking a 20 thousand dollar a year Pay cut after being fired. So I’ve had no income for 4 weeks. Can I get unemployment during this time? I had emergency surgery and can’ go back to work for at least another week and bill are due.

A) Whether or not you can receive unemployment benefits while on medical leave depends on the laws of your state and the specific circumstances of your situation. In general, if you are unable to work due to a medical condition, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you meet certain criteria.

In some states, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you are unable to work due to a medical condition, but are available and actively seeking work that you are able to perform. In other states, you may be required to be physically able to work and available for full-time work in order to be eligible for benefits.

It’s important to note that there may be additional requirements related to medical leave and unemployment benefits, such as a waiting period or the need to provide medical documentation. If you are considering applying for unemployment benefits while on medical leave, you should contact your state’s unemployment office or visit their website for more information on the specific requirements and eligibility criteria in your state.

You may want to consider applying for short term disability. As The general requirement for unemployment insurance benefits are:

Have received enough wages during the base period to establish a claim.
Be totally or partially unemployed.
Be unemployed through no fault of his/her own.
Be physically able to work.
Be available for work which means to be ready and willing to immediately accept work.
Be actively looking for work.
Meet eligibility requirements each week benefits are claimed.
Be approved for training before training benefits can be paid.