10 Things You Need to Know About Unemployment Insurance Benefits in Utah

Losing a job can be a stressful and uncertain time. If you find yourself unemployed in Utah, you may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. Here's what you need to know to file for and receive benefits:

1. Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits in Utah, you must:

• Have lost your job through no fault of your own
• Be able and available to work
• Have earned enough wages in the past year
• Be registered with the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS)

2. How to File for Benefits

You can file for unemployment insurance benefits online, by phone, or in person at a DWS office. The fastest way to file is online.

To file online, you will need to create an account on the DWS website. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and other personal information. You will also need to provide information about your job loss, such as the date you were laid off and the reason for your termination.

To file by phone, call the DWS at 801-526-9244. You will need to provide the same information as you would if you were filing online.

To file in person, visit your local DWS office. You can find the address of your local office on the DWS website.

3. Benefit Amount

The amount of unemployment insurance benefits you receive will depend on your past wages. The maximum weekly benefit amount in Utah is $447. The minimum weekly benefit amount is $45.

You will receive benefits for up to 26 weeks. However, you may be eligible for extended benefits if you have exhausted your regular benefits and certain economic conditions are met.

4. How to Receive Benefits

You will receive your unemployment insurance benefits by direct deposit or debit card. You can choose which method you prefer when you file for benefits.

If you choose to receive benefits by direct deposit, you will need to provide your bank account information. If you choose to receive benefits by debit card, you will be issued a card that you can use to access your benefits.

5. Reporting Requirements

You must report your weekly earnings to the DWS each week, even if you do not earn any money. You can report your earnings online, by phone, or in person at a DWS office.

If you fail to report your earnings, your benefits may be delayed or denied.

6. Job Search Requirements

You must actively look for work while you are receiving unemployment insurance benefits. You must keep a record of your job search activities and provide this information to the DWS upon request.

If you fail to meet the job search requirements, your benefits may be denied.

7. Other Programs

In addition to unemployment insurance benefits, the DWS offers a number of other programs to help unemployed workers. These programs include:

• Job training
• Job placement assistance
• Career counseling

You can learn more about these programs by visiting the DWS website or contacting your local DWS office.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about unemployment insurance benefits in Utah:

• Q: How long does it take to receive benefits?
• A: The DWS processes claims as quickly as possible. However, the time it takes to receive benefits can vary depending on the complexity of your claim.
• Q: What should I do if I disagree with a decision made by the DWS?
• A: You can appeal a decision made by the DWS by filing a written appeal within 14 days of the decision.
• Q: Can I receive unemployment insurance benefits if I quit my job?
• A:* You may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits if you quit your job for good cause. Good cause includes being forced to quit due to a hostile work environment or sexual harassment.
• Q: Can I receive unemployment insurance benefits if I am self-employed?
• A: Self-employed individuals are not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. However, you may be eligible for other programs, such as the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program.

9. Resources

Here are some helpful resources for unemployed workers in Utah:

• Utah Department of Workforce Services: https://jobs.utah.gov/
• Utah Unemployment Benefits: https://jobs.utah.gov/ui/
• Utah Workforce Services Call Center: 801-526-9244

10. Conclusion

Unemployment insurance benefits can provide a financial safety net for workers who have lost their jobs. If you are unemployed in Utah, you should apply for benefits as soon as possible.