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Posted on 16 Oct 2008

First of all, unemployment isn't welfare; it's insurance.& 160; You paid into it, and if you're entitled to it, darn Skippy you should take it.

The questions you have to ask yourself are these:

1) Was I fired through any fault of my own?

If the answer is "no" or "debatable," then continue reading.& 160; If the answer is something like, "Yes, I got frustrated and destroyed my work computer with an axe," just stop reading now because you're likely not eligible.

& 160;2) Am I making money now through business activity or part-time employment?

If the answer is "no," keep reading.& 160; If the answer is "yes," you might still be eligible in many states, depending on how much you're making.

& 160;3) Am I actively looking for work?

We should hope so.& 160; If not, you're definitely not eligible.& 160;

& 160;If you believe you may be entitled to collect unemployment benefits, you should absolutely file a claim. You and your former employer have been paying into this fund. Now you need it. Take it! If you paid into health insurance you'd file a claim if you got sick, right? Same thing here. One more time:& 160; Unemployment benefits are not welfare, they're insurance, and you should not feel the least bit guilty about collecting if you're legitimately entitled to collect.

& 160;Even if you don't think you qualify, you should still file a claim (unless you smashed your work computer to bits with an axe).& 160; If nothing else, it can help clear the air on the circumstances of your dismissal.

Don't leave money on the table!

Join this supportive online community of unemployed people!