Back Unemployment Benefits in New Jersey

Are you eligible for New Jersey unemployment benefits?

Threshold Requirements.

To be eligible for benefits, you must be able to work, available for work and actively seeking work.  See N.J.S.A. § 43:21-1 et seq.

If You Quit.

You will only be able to collect unemployment benefits if you resigned for “good cause” in connection with your work.  For example, if your employer insists you perform illegal or unethical tasks and you quit, you will likely be entitled to benefits.  But if you quit to move to a new location or to take care of your children, you will likely be denied benefits because these are not reasons “connected with the work.”

If You Were Fired.

You will be entitled to unemployment benefits unless you were fired for “misconduct” in connection with your work.  Misconduct can include things like breaking company policies or serious insubordination.  If it is determined that you engaged in misconduct, you will likely be disqualified from receiving benefits for six weeks.  If it is determined that you committed “gross misconduct” (like stealing from your employer), you may be disqualified indefinitely.

You can learn more about specific situations and even apply for unemployment benefits on-line at the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s website here

About the Author

Sarah Fern Meil, Attorney at Law
19 Bridge Street
P.O. Box 426
Stockton, NJ 08559
Ph: 609.397.4333
F: 609.228.4307

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