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how to file for unemployment benefits in virginia

by Angelina Walter Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  1. Choose your method for filing your claim. Virginia has two options for filing your unemployment claim.
  2. Complete your application. Regardless of the method you have chosen to file your claim, you will need to provide personal information and employment documentation.
  3. Calculate how much unemployment insurance you will collect. The more that you made at your previous job, the more you will collect in unemployment insurance.
  4. Select your method of payment. You will need to choose between a VA Debit Card or direct deposit. ...

Who is eligible for Virginia Unemployment Insurance?
  • 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.

Full Answer

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 apply for unemployment benefits in Virginia?

How Do I Apply For Social Security In New Hampshire? At SSA.gov you can access your benefits online. Call SSA’s toll-free telephone service line (1-800-772-1213) for assistance. Find out where a local Social Security Office is located.

How to tell if you are eligible for unemployment benefits?

You must be:

  • Physically able to work.
  • Available for work.
  • Ready and willing to accept work immediately.

How do you file claim for unemployment benefits?

• Mail from a government agency about an unemployment claim or payment, even though you did not recently file for unemployment benefits. This includes unexpected payments or debit cards and could be from any state. • An IRS Form 1099-G reflecting unemployment benefits you weren’t expecting.

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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 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.

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 is the next step after filing the unemployment benefits appeal?

After filing an appeal from the appeals examiner's decision, a Notice of Appeal will be mailed to all parties along with the appeal itself. The Notice of Appeal is a means to advise the parties that an appeal has been filed and to provide additional information. Unless a hearing is requested in writing, the case will be assigned to a special examiner who will review all of the information previously submitted and make a decision. Please thoroughly read the Notice of Appeal that you received.

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.

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.

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.

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 witnesses or documents be subpoenaed for unemployment benefits appeal hearing in Virginia?

See full answerParties desiring witnesses or documents to be subpoenaed should submit requests immediately to the clerk's office. Requests should be in writing but may be made by telephone. The request should include the claimants name and social security number and the name and address of the witness to be subpoenaed. It is important to include the city or county in Virginia where the witness can be served. In the case of documents, the name and address, including the city or county in Virginia, of the custodian of the documents should be provided. The party requesting the subpoena may be asked to demonstrate that: (1) the testimony of the witness of the evidence contained in the documents would be relevant to the appeal; (2) the evidence sought to be produced would not be merely cumulative; and (3) it would serve the interest of the party seeking the subpoena. The Commission may deny a subpoena request if these criteria are not met.

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 is it called when you file a claim against another state?

You file a claim against the other state if you have earned enough wages in that state to qualify for benefits. This is known as an Interstate Claim; or, You request that the wages earned in other states be transferred to Virginia and “combined” to qualify for benefits.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What happens if you work less than your weekly income?

If you work and your gross income for the week is less than your weekly benefit amount, that gross amount less $50 will be deducted from your weekly benefit amount. If your gross earnings equal or exceed your weekly benefit amount, you will not receive benefits for that week.

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.

How Do I Find Out What My Rate Is

Information concerning employer contribution rates can be obtained by calling the Contribution Receipts Unit of our Unemployment Compensation Division at 304-558-2676 or 304-558-2233. Most new employers begin with a rate of 2.7%. This rate remains the same for 36 consecutive months ending on June 30.

Am I Eligible For Unemployment Benefits

To be eligible for unemployment benefit payments in West Virginia, you must:

Are There Any Exceptions To The Case Of Wrongful Termination In Virginia

Truck drivers can be terminated for either a single reason, or for repeated incidents. The judge will provide an exception for VA unemployment insurance benefits if an applicant was fired for a single, relatively minor issue, compared to if it was for a repeated or severe issue.

Unemployed Virginians Hoping New Claim System Will Work

RICHMOND, Va. After a week and a half hiatus, Virginians can file their unemployment claims online again. This time they can use a new system that was implemented by the Virginia Employment Commission as part of modernization efforts.

How To Answer Unemployment Weekly Claim Questions In Florida

Unemployment Benefits In Florida Questions Connecticut Delaware D.C. Florida Georgia Hawaii Here is a list of the maximum weekly unemployment compensation benefits for each U.S. state. $529, Connecticut unemployment, extended benefits, unemployment claim issues, and what to do. Return Doc Can I Collect Unemployment If Im Self-Employed?

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Information

I supported the CARES Act to bolster our public health and economic recovery responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. This bill created the temporary Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, which provides unemployment insurance benefits to people who arent usually covered by the traditional Virginia Unemployment Program.

How To File A Weekly Request For Payment

To file weekly claims by phone, call the VECs Voice Response System at 1-800-897-5630.

How long can you be ineligible for unemployment in Virginia?

If the Virginia Employment Commission finds you guilty of fraud, you’ll be ineligible to receive benefits for at least 52 weeks. Report all gross wages earned and keep accurate records. The VEC checks and compares all wages employers report and can intercept your state tax refund. Report Unemployment Insurance Fraud.

How to file a claim for unemployment?

Three steps make up our claims process. Before you file a claim, understand each step and how you can best file and register for work. Step one is “File Your Initial Claim.”. Step two is “Register For Work.”. Step three is “File Your Weekly Claim.”.

How to file a one time unemployment claim?

Your initial claim determines if you are eligible for benefits. File this claim online or by phone between the hours of 8:15am and 4:30pm, Monday - Friday (Closed state holidays) 1-866-832-2363. After you make this one-time claim, you must move on to Step 2: Register For Work. File your Initial claim online.

What happens if you don't register for work in Virginia?

If you do not register for work, your benefits may be delayed or denied. The Virginia Employment Commission requires you to seek work on an ongoing basis. After all, getting you back to work is the top priority. Register for work now.

Can I claim unemployment if I am earning more than my weekly income?

If you are now earning more than your weekly benefit amount your unemployment benefits must cease. Simply report your return to work date and stop making your weekly call or online filing for benefits. Note: It is illegal to claim benefits while employed.

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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...
See more on vec.virginia.gov

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…
See more on vec.virginia.gov

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.
See more on vec.virginia.gov

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).
See more on vec.virginia.gov

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…
See more on vec.virginia.gov

Other Resources

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