Filing incorrectly will result in an outright denial of benefits, a delay or being awarded less than the full amount.

How you file unemployment can have a major impact on the benefits you receive, as a correctly filed application can result in up to ,000 in benefits paid at a maximum of 00 a month.

The intent of unemployment is not to replace your income. It is intended to help you through the time required to become re-employed. That said, the time between starting a new job, and getting paid can be up to four weeks putting a serious strain on any budget.

Considering these 7 major factors will help you a great deal when you file unemployment.

1. Do you qualify for umemployment? Because unemployment is a state benefit, eligibility varies depending on your state of residence. There is much more to merely being unemployed or being laid off. Along with being fired from or quitting a job, you can also file unemployment claims if you are under-employed. Will you continue to stay eligible or not? You can be disqualified before you file, during the filing process, as well as during the continued benefits time period.

2. Amount of the award. We can help you determine how much in unemployment benefits you are eligible for. Sometimes people get as little as 0 per month, but are required to file more and more paperwork to recieve even that amount, which makes it often not worth your time.

3. When to file unemployment claim. You should in general file immediately after your job dismissal. That said, your case may vary based on your state, and the nature of your termination, so “file unemployment” immediately is definitely not a one-size-fits-all strategy. In one particular case, we offered assistance to a young lady whose claim was delayed for over a month because she filed too early. If you are dealing with a potential workman’s compensation claim, complete that before you file.

4. Directions on how to File Unemployment. All but six states allow people to file unemployment claims using the Internet. When filing a claim with the state, they typically require you to provide supporting evidence. Once the application is made, the information it contains cannot be changed in any way. When you file your claim, make sure you provide accurate information.

5. Supporting Documentation and Arguments. Depending on your personal situation, we can recommend several arguments for you to use when filing your appication. It is important for these arguments to be based on the facts. That said, you may want to present facts in a specific way depending on the state laws and how your ex-employer states their side of the case. Generally, if you quit your job, in order to be eligible, there needs to be one of a few specific reasons present. These might include issues involving gender or sexual harrassment, issues at home such as domestic violence or transportation issues where no alternative exists.

6. If the state denies your claim, you have the right to appeal. There’s a phrase that applies in some cases: “You can wrestle with a pig in the mud, and the pig enjoys it and you just get filthy”. State employees don’t like dealing with appeals and of course in some cases it’s a total waste of time, however in other cases it can provide a reversal of the denial decison and full award.

Lastly, to file unemployment successfully, here a few common mistakes you should avoid. The preceding tips are from our 9-step re-employment system we designed to save those attempting to file unemployment claims time, and money, and to maximize their benefits. Here are 3 common mistakes (naturally, our guide has many more you can avoid):

1. File unemployment on Monday. Mondays tend to be the busiest so unless you enjoy waiting in lines or being put on hold, it’s best to wait to file another day. Instead, Monday is a great time to get hold of contacts who may be able to provide referrals. In certain states, using the previous week to support your claim is not allowed if you file over the Internet.

2. Not utilyzing one’s social network. Over 40% of hires are made based on relationships. Relying on the people who know and respect you is a much better way of job hunting than relying on job boards or classified ads.

3. Providing too much information on your application can lead to disqualification. In general, it is best to keep the information you provide to a bare minimum. Anyone wanting to file unemployment should be aware the system is being flooded with claims, and that even minor mistakes can result in a claim being denied.

Becoming unemployed is tough. It is stressful not only financially, but psychologically, and emotionally, as well. Have you ever noticed that sometimes the highest-paid exectutives manage to “fall up”, get million-dollar severance packages, and no matter what seem just fine? This guide is to help you file unemployment and can help you make the best of this situation. A change of employment can be a positive experience if done right. If not, your career and finances could be set back years.