FINANCE
Can you get unemployment if you quit your job in Florida? What disqualifies you from receiving benefits?
In the Sunshine State quitting a job without ‘good cause’ may disqualify you from unemployment benefits which were revised in response to covid-19.
Florida’s system of unemployment benefits is called ‘Reemployment assistance’. This system provides bewteen 12 to 23 weeks of support up to a maximum of $275 a week. Clearly this is not a salary to survive upon and the intention of the programme is to get claimants back into work.
To qualify for Florida unemployment benefits, you must meet these criteria:
- Loss of a job: You must have lost your job through no fault of your own. You must be totally or partially unemployed. Partially unemployed means your hours were reduced or you’re a part-time worker who can’t find additional work.
- Previous earned money: You must have earned at least $3,400 before taxes in what is called the “base period,” which is the first four complete quarters beginning 18 months prior to your claim.
- Seeking work: You must be able to work, available to work, and actively seeking work. This includes being able to get to a job and have child care if necessary.
For more information on the eligibility requirement, contact your local CareerSource Florida centre.
What disqualifies you from receiving benefits?
In Florida, if you voluntarily quit your job without good cause, you will not be eligible for unemployment benefits. Good cause is generally defined as a reason that would cause a reasonable person to quit, such as unsafe working conditions, discrimination, or a significant reduction in pay or hours.
Employees that are fired for misconduct cannot qualify for unemployment benefits. Poor performance in work is not included as misconduct.
How to file for unemployment benefits in Florida
Jobless support claimants in Florida must also provide personal and employment details to support their application. The claim should be filed on the state’s CONNECT site, in the My Florida Unemployment sub-section.