- You can begin the process of filing your claim by visiting the VEC Online Claims site found here: http://www.vec.virginia.gov/unemployed
- To file your claim over the phone, contact the VEC call center toll free at 1-866-832-2363. They are available from 8:15am to 4:30pm Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. ...
- If you are filing over the phone, you will be given instructions on how to use the VEC's Voice Response System (VRS). Follow these instructions carefully. ...
- Try to use a landline if you are filing over the phone. ...
- Unemployed, and.
- Worked in Virginia during the past 12 months (this period may be longer in some cases), and.
- Earned a minimum amount of wages determined by Virginia guidelines, and.
- Actively seeking work each week you are collecting benefits.
How do you collect unemployment in Virginia?
Unemployed workers who lost their jobs in October and November said they’re still waiting on approvals and payments, while the VEC undergoes a leadership change.
How do you file for unemployment benefits in VA?
You will need the following information to file your claim:
- Your Social Security Number
- The accurate employer names, addresses, telephone numbers and dates of employment within the last 18 months.
- The name and local number of your local union hall, if you obtain work through a union.
- Your Alien Registration Number if you are not a US citizen.
How much does Virginia pay in unemployment?
Virginia: $53,985: $4,499: $1,038: $25.95: Colorado: $52,738: $4,395: $1,014: $25.35: South Carolina: $52,712: $4,393: $1,014: $25.34: Delaware: $52,155: $4,346: $1,003: $25.07: Missouri: $52,080: $4,340: $1,002: $25.04: California: $51,920: $4,327: $998: $24.96: Vermont: $51,168: $4,264: $984: $24.60: Kentucky: $50,914: $4,243: $979: $24.48: Oklahoma: $50,842: $4,237: $978: $24.44: Wyoming: $50,391: $4,199: $969: $24.23: Connecticut: $50,044: $4,170
How often do you get paid for Virginia unemployment?
Virginia's Weekly Benefit Amount and Duration. Virginians who have lost work can receive payments) from $60 to $378 every week. Their benefits can last from 12 to 26 weeks, depending on the amount of wages they previously earned. If it is a time of high unemployment, as it is during the pandemic, there may be an extension and increase of ...
What should I do if the Internet unemployment benefits claim filing system does not have my job title?
Search for a job title that most closely represents your job title. You will be mailed a job seeker registration form that will allow you to provide detailed information about your job title and duties and the positions you are seeking. Your job title does not affect your unemployment benefits.
Who can be a representative for unemployment benefits appeal?
See full answerAny person of their choosing can represent a party. A representative does not have to be an attorney. If a claimant engages the services of an attorney, the Commission must approve the attorney's fee.If a claimant desires to be represented by an attorney but lacks the resources to hire one, free legal services may be available through one of the legal aid offices in the state. The Virginia State Bar or the local bar association can provide information concerning free legal services which may be available. If an attorney or other representative is engaged to represent a party, the attorney or representative should contact the clerk's office immediately to ensure proper notice of future proceedings in the case.
Where do I file an unemployment benefits complaint that is not based on discrimination in Virginia?
If you have a complaint about the service you receive which cannot be resolved by your service point, you may contact the Customer Service Unit, Virginia Employment Commission, P.O. 1358, Richmond, VA 23261-6441, 1-866-832-2363 (Available 8:15am to 4:30pm, Monday - Friday. Closed state holidays.) Hearing impaired persons may call 1-(800) 828-1120.
What is the difference between a hearing for oral argument and for additional evidence for unemployment benefit hearing?
At an oral argument hearing, you can explain why, based on the information previously submitted, the appeals examiner's decision should be changed or remain the same. You will not be allowed to present new evidence.At a hearing for additional evidence, you will have the opportunity to present additional information that was not provided earlier. There may be limitations imposed by the special examiner who hears the case. If so, those limitations will usually be explained on the hearing notice or in a separate letter.
What should the parties consider concerning witnesses for unemployment benefits appeal hearing?
See full answerParties have the right to call witnesses on their behalf. Usually witnesses with first-hand knowledge should be called. This generally means eyewitnesses. Parties should be familiar with the substance of their witnesses' testimony before calling them to testify.This means that once a certain fact has been established, additional witnesses whose testimony is merely repetitive, will usually not be allowed to testify, except in rebuttal. Witnesses will be subject to the questioning of the opposing party and the appeals examiner. Parties should contact their witnesses as soon as possible. If a key witness cannot be present for a hearing the party should contact the clerk's office immediately at (804) 786-3020 and request the hearing be postponed, rescheduled or request permission to allow the witness to participate by telephone.
Are parties allowed to tape record their own unemployment benefits appeal hearings?
No. The appeals examiner makes the official recording of the hearing. Parties desiring to engage the services of a court reporter may do so, at their own expense.
What is an affidavit in context of unemployment benefits appeal?
An affidavit is a statement, which is sworn to before a notary public, and not merely a notarized statement.
How is an unemployment benefits appeal filed?
See full answerAll appeals must be in writing. There are four ways in which an appeal may be filed:In person. Appeals may be filed in person at the VEC local office in which the initial claim was filed. A local office representative will be glad to assist parties in filing appeals. Appeal forms are available in the local offices for parties filing in person. Appeals delivered by courier are considered as in person filings.By mail. Appeals may be filed by mailing a letter of appeal to the Clerk of the Commission, P.O. Box 26441, Richmond, VA 23261-6441.By fax. Appeals may be faxed to the Clerk of the Commission, FLA (804) 786-8492.Online. Visit the Virginia Internet Appeals website.All appeals should contain the name and social security number of the claimant and the reason(s) for the appeal. The reason(s) for the appeal do not have to be detailed but parties desiring to appeal must clearly indicate their intention to appeal.
What is the importance of the unemployment benefits appeal hearing?
The hearing is one of the most important aspects of the appeals process. In most cases it is the only opportunity for evidence to be placed into the official record. Testimony and other evidence available but not offered at the hearing will usually not be allowed or considered at a higher level of appeal. When parties fail to participate in a hearing, the appeals examiner deciding the case will issue a decision based upon the available evidence.
When is my unemployment benefits appeal hearing?
Hearings are not automatically scheduled at the Commission level. A hearing before the Commission must be requested in writing. That request must be made within 14 days from the date the Notice of Appeal was mailed.
Can evidence obtained at unemployment benefits appeals examiner's hearing be used in other legal proceedings in Virgnia?
Information provided to the Commission can be used only in proceedings arising from the Virginia Unemployment Compensation Act. Appeals hearings cannot be used for discovery or "fishing expeditions" for other legal proceedings.
Can you subpoena someone in unemployment benefits appeal hearing?
There are rare instances when subpoenas can be issued, but only if the Commission has decided to receive additional evidence in the case. Subpoenas should be requested by writing the Clerk of the Commission, Office of Commission Appeals, P.O. Box 26441, Richmond, VA 23218 or calling (804) 786-4140.
How to contact VEC for unemployment?
The Customer Contact Center telephone number is 1-866-832-2363 (Available 8:15am to 4:30pm, Monday - Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday. Closed Sunday and state holidays.)
How many weeks do you have to work to qualify for unemployment?
The amount of wages you earned will determine your weekly benefit amount and the maximum number of weeks (12 to 26 weeks) to which you will be entitled. Benefit computation tables are available on the VEC website.
How to contact VEC for incorrect wages?
If you feel the wages shown for your base period are incorrect, you may call the VEC Customer Contact Center at 1-866-832-2363 (Available 8:15am to 4:30pm, Monday - Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday. Closed Sunday and state holidays.) and provide information to correct the wages. You will be asked to fax or mail proof of correct wages (W-2s, ...
What are the requirements for a VEC?
After you file your application for benefits, the VEC will decide whether you meet three separate requirements: 1) Monetary eligibility; 2) Separation qualification; and 3) Weekly eligibility.
What to do if you can't call unemployment?
A: Call or report when you are scheduled to do so. If you do not, you may not be paid unemplo yment benefits for the week you are scheduled to call or report. If you cannot call or report for any reason, call ahead of the scheduled time to explain the circumstances. Unemployment Insurance Handbook for Claimants.
What is an active search for work?
A: An active search for work means that you must make two (2) or more job contacts each week in your effort to find work unless instructed otherwise by the VEC. You must be able to provide the VEC, when requested, with information about each employer or company you contact.
Can you deduct vacation pay from your weekly benefits?
You will be notified if these benefits or pay affect your weekly benefit amount.
How are VA unemployment benefits paid?
Benefits are paid through taxes on employers covered under the Virginia Unemployment Compensation Act. No part of the cost of your unemployment benefits is deducted from your earnings.
What is the VA unemployment program?
The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) administers the unemployment compensation program that provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who become unemployed through no fault of their own. Benefits are paid through taxes on employers covered under the Virginia Unemployment Compensation Act.
What is a B-14 form?
These forms are to be used only after being directed to do so by a VEC representative. VEC B-14 - Physician's Certificate of Health/Request for Medical Information. To be used when your medical condition was a factor in your separation from your employer. VEC B-14A - Medical Professional Certificate of Health.
When does the weekly request for unemployment end?
You must meet the weekly eligibility requirements listed below. Your benefit week begins on Sunday and ends at midnight on Saturday. You cannot claim the week until it is completely over.
What is the regular base period for unemployment?
The regular base period consists of the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters prior to the effective date of your claim. If you feel the wages shown on the determination are incorrect, call 1-866-832-2363 (Available 8:15am to 4:30pm, Monday - Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday.
How many hours do you have to work to get a pension?
If you receive a pension, retirement, or other annuity, it will be deducted from your weekly benefit amount if it is paid by your most recent employer of 30 days or 240 hours or more, or from any employer in the base period of your claim (as shown on your monetary determination).
How long do you have to file a weekly claim?
To avoid denial of benefits, you must file your first weekly claim within 28 days of the date you filed your initial/new claim. For example, if you filed your claim on January 2, your first weekly claim must be filed by January 30. Subsequent weekly claims for benefits must be filed within 28 days of the Saturday date of the week claimed. For example, if your last week claimed ended on Saturday, February 4, then your subsequent weekly claim must be filed no later than March 4. The Voice Response System and the Internet will not allow you to claim benefits for weeks that are more than 28 days old.
How long does unemployment last?
If you qualify monetarily, your claim remains in effect for one year. This period is called a benefit year.
Can you collect unemployment if you are separated?
Even though you may have enough earnings to qualify, there are circumstances that may prevent you from receiving unemployment benefits. If you are separated for any reason other than lack of work, it will be necessary to gather facts from you and your employer concerning your separation.
Can you be disqualified from a job without cause?
You will be disqualified if the deputy determines that you quit your job without good cause, or you were fired from your job for misconduct in connection with your work. You and your employer have the right to appeal the deputy’s determination if either of you disagrees with the results.
How to file unemployment claim in Virginia?
Virginia has two options for filing your unemployment claim. You can file online or over the phone. Applying online is probably the easiest and fastest way to file your claim. To file your claim over the phone, contact the VEC call center toll free at 1-866-832-2363.
How to continue to receive unemployment benefits?
Be prepared to meet weekly eligibility qualifications. In order to continue to receive unemployment insurance, you will need to complete several tasks each week. If you are unable or unwilling to conduct an ongoing job search and file a weekly claim, you will not be able to collect your benefits.
How long does it take to collect unemployment?
The more that you made at your previous job, the more you will collect in unemployment insurance. You will collect these benefits over a period of 12 and 26 weeks depending on your circumstances.
How long does it take to get VA debit card?
If you choose a VA Debit Card, it may take a few weeks after filing your claim before the card arrives in the mail. You can expect your first payment within 14 days of filing your initial claim. It takes 2 business days for your funds to be deposited into your account after your weekly claim is processed.
How long does a VEC claim last?
Once your claim is established, the amount you qualify for will remain the same for one year. It is available to you until you have reached your maximum benefit amount or the benefit year comes to an end.
What is considered unemployed?
You are unemployed if you are not working and are not earning any money. You also are considered unemployed during any week that you work less than full time and earn less than your weekly benefit amount . You are considered partially unemployed during any week that you work for your regular employer and earn less than your weekly ...
Do you report unemployment benefits in Virginia?
Report the total amount of the gross earnings/wages before taxes and other employer deductions are made. Do not report net earnings/wages. Do not report the receipt of Virginia unemployment benefits. Report your reason for separation from any employer, even if it is temporary employment. If your work is continuing, report this as well.
How Do I Get Virginia Unemployment Benefits?
You can apply for Virginia unemployment benefits through the VEC's online portal or by calling 1-886-832-2363 on weekdays between 8:15 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. You will be required to submit the following information:
How Do the Virginia Unemployment Benefits Eligibility Criteria Work?
Applicants must satisfy the VEC's monetary and non-monetary eligibility criteria to receive Virginia unemployment benefits. You are also responsible for meeting the weekly criteria to continue receiving benefits once your claim is approved.
How Much Will I Get and for How Long?
You will not be paid during the first week following your initial claim, a period known as the waiting week. This week gives your previous employers time to object to your benefits application.
What If I'm Denied Virginia Unemployment Benefits?
The most likely reason for being denied Virginia unemployment benefits is not satisfying the eligibility criteria. However, you have the right to appeal if you believe the decision was incorrect.
How long does it take to cancel unemployment?
If you wish to cancel your initial claim and not file for benefits, your cancellation request must be made in writing within 30 days after your claim is filed. The final date for the cancellation request is the same as the final date for appeal shown on your monetary determination.
What happens if you make a false statement on unemployment?
If you make a false statement or misrepresentation, or have knowingly failed to disclose a material fact, to obtain or increase benefits, you may be subject to a fine and/or imprisonment and be prevented from receiving future benefits for 52 weeks. A conviction for fraud is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the false statement results in an overpayment of unemployment benefits received, you will be required to repay those benefits plus a 15 percent penalty.
How many hours do you have to work to get a pension?
If you receive a pension, retirement, Worker's Compensation, or other annuity, it will be deducted from your weekly benefit amount if it is paid by your most recent employer of 30 days or 240 hours or more, or from any employer in the base period of your claim (as shown on your monetary determination).
How long do you have to file a weekly claim?
Weekly Eligibility Requirements. To avoid denial of benefits, you must file your first weekly claim within 28 days of the date you filed your initial/new claim. For example, if you filed your claim on January 2, your first weekly claim must be filed by January 30.
Can you collect unemployment if you are separated?
Separation qualification —Even though you may have enough earnings to qualify, there are circumstances that may prevent you from receiving unemployment benefits. If you are separated for any reason other than lack of work, it will be necessary to gather facts from you and your employer concerning your separation.
Can you be disqualified from a job without cause?
You will be disqualified if the deputy determines that you quit your job without good cause, or you were fired from your job for misconduct in connection with your work. You and your employer have the right to appeal the deputy’s determination if either of you disagrees with the results.
Filing Your Initial Claim
- You can file either online or by telephone for your initial claim (to file online, please select below to get started) 1. English 2. Spanish To file by using the telephone, please call 1-866-832-2363. Call volume in our contact centers is exceedingly high. If you experience delays, please use the online portal to file your initial claim for UI bene...
Continuing/Weekly Claims
- It is your responsibility to file your weekly continued claim on time, each week, while you are receiving benefits. Please understand, filing your weekly claim is different than the initial claim. You will use the online portal to file the weekly claim or call the interactive voice response number. 1. File Your Weekly Continued Claim by Internet 1.1. English 1.2. Spanish 2. File Your W…
Contact Information Changes
- If your contact information changes at any time, it is your responsibility to notify us immediately at: 1-866-832-2363 or complete the name/address change form: Instructions | Form.
Text Telephone Relay/Tty Callers
- For TTY Callers: Virginia Relay, Call 711 Virginia Relay enables people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind, or speech disabled to communicate by TTY (text telephone).
Important Information Regarding Your Claim
Special Circumstance Information and Forms
- These forms are to be used only after being directed to do so by a VEC representative. 1. VEC B-14 - Physician's Certificate of Health/Request for Medical Information To be used when your medical condition was a factor in your separation from your employer. 2. VEC B-14A - Medical Professional Certificate of Health To be used when your medical condition affects your weekly a…
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