If you leave a job, you should apply for unemployment right away -- no matter why you left. It doesn't matter if you

• quit,
• were fired,
• were laid off,
• worked off the books for cash,
• were an independent contractor, or
• were told by your boss that you can't collect.

The only way to find out if you can get benefits is to apply. You can apply online or by phone (in English and Spanish).

Online: www.ct.gov/dol
Phone: 860-263-6785 (Ask for your local TeleBenefits number)

Can I Get Unemployment?

You will probably be able to get benefits if:

• You have a good reason for leaving your job.
• You are not working full time. You may be able to get a smaller benefi t if your boss cut your hours from full time to part time.
• You are able to work.
• You are available to work.
• You have earned enough money and worked long enough. The unemployment office uses a complicated way to figure this out. The best way to find out is to apply.
• You are actively looking for a job.

What Happens After I Apply?

You will get a letter in the mail. It will say either

• You will be able to get unemployment, or
• You must go to a "fact finding" hearing.

You will have a "fact finding" hearing if you quit, you were fired, or you don't have a "pink slip."

Note: You may hear the words or apply for benefits or file a new claim. They mean the same thing.

Fact Finding Hearing

• Go to your hearing. You probably will NOT get benefits if you do not go to your hearing.
• Call us for help before your hearing.
• If you are fired, it is up to your boss to prove you should not collect. See our article, Can I Collect If I Am Fired?
• If you quit, it is up to you to prove 4 things:
  1. You had a very good reason to quit.
  2. You are able to work and are looking for work.
  3. Quitting was the only reasonable thing to do.
  4. Before you quit, you told your boss about the problem, if you were able to. See our booklet, Can I Collect If I Quit My Job?
• If you are denied benefits, you can appeal. Call us for help.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: You can apply for unemployment no matter why you're not working.

This information is based on laws in Connecticut as of September 2011. It is not intended as legal advice for an individual situation. Please call Statewide Legal Services or contact an attorney for additional help. Produced by Legal Assistance Resource Center of CT. www.ctlawhelp.org