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) 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.