Unemployment around the US is continuing to rise, with announcements today from both Lyft and Uber of major layoffs  (Lyft is laying off 17% of the company, and Uber is expected to lay off 20%). TripAdvisor laid off 25% of their workforce, and  aviation giant Boeing plans to lay off 10%.  With even more Americans out of work,  we wanted to answer some of the most common questions people have about unemployment so you can access benefits and ride out the crisis.

How do I apply for Unemployment?

If you've been laid off or had your hours significantly cut from your job, you will likely be eligible for unemployment.  You should file the week that your hours are reduced or you are laid off if you can. Most states have an online portal that you can apply with, although some applicants prefer to call by phone. You will probably need certain information to apply, like your  gross earnings during your last week worked, your supervisor's name, and your last date worked. You can find information on unemployment benefits in all states here.

How much money will I receive?

How much money you receive on unemployment depends on two factors: your income from your job before you were laid off, and how your state calculates benefits. States vary on what percentage of your income they replace, and some states pay more to applicants that have dependents. You can calculate the unemployment your state offers here.

In addition to whatever is calculated by your state, all recipients of unemployment will receive an extra $600 per week from the federal government starting Wednesday through the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program. If you have already filed for unemployment, it will be paid retroactively as far back as April 4th. It will automatically be added to benefits, with no action needed by the applicant.

Do I have to be job searching to receive unemployment?

One of the baseline requirements of unemployment insurance is that you have to be actively seeking a job in order to receive them. That can be difficult in a pandemic, so some states have waived that requirement, including Connecticut, Arizona, and Delaware. Check whether your state has waived this requirement using this guide from Gusto.

When will I receive my benefits?

Although states are doing their best to get benefits to applicants as quickly as possible, there have been widespread delays due to COVID-19.  It may be a few weeks before you receive your first check, although California is now aiming to disburse benefits in 24-48 hours. We are tracking unemployment claims in every state here at Skip--sign up to track your payment here.

How long does unemployment last?

Typically, unemployment benefits are provided for 26 weeks, but unemployment benefits are managed at the state level  and  eight states provide less. They include Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina and South Carolina.

Under the CARES Act, individuals are eligible for an additional 13 weeks of federal unemployment once they exhaust their state benefits, whatever length those may be.