ODJFS Online | Unemployment Compensation FAQ's

Job & Family Services Unemployment Compensation FAQ's

Unemployment Compensation FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions about Unemployment Compensation

I.	Filing an application for unemployment benefits

	When should I file an application for benefits?

	How do I apply?

	What information do I need when I apply?

	What about false statements and how to report fraud?

	How do I claim a dependent child?

	How do I claim a dependent spouse?

	May a claim for unemployment benefits be restarted?

	What information is needed to restart a claim?

	May an applicant file a claim outside of Ohio?


II.	Eligibility for unemployment benefits

	*Definitions*

	How do I establish eligibility?

	What is covered employment?

	What is a calendar quarter?

	What is the base period?

	What is a qualifying week?

	How is the average weekly wage computed?

	What is the benefit year?

	What is a dependency classification?

	Who qualifies as an allowable dependent?

	What is the weekly benefit amount?

	How long may an applicant receive benefits?

	What is the total amount of benefits an applicant may receive?



*Reason for unemployment*

	If I have lack of work, am I eligible for benefits?

	If I quit or left my job, am I eligible for benefits?

	If I was discharged or fired, am I eligible for benefits?

	If I am unemployed due to a leave of absence or disciplinary layoff, am I eligible for benefits?

	What is meant by just cause?

	If I am unemployed because of a labor dispute, am I eligible for benefits?

	Does the agency contact my former employer(s)?

*Notification of benefits*

	What happens after I submit my application?

	If the application is allowed, what happens next?

	How do I know if I have met the eligibility requirements?

	Are there requalifying requirements after a disqualification?

	When will I receive my first benefits check?

	Why are no benefits paid for the first week of unemployment?


III.	Getting Payments

	How do I file a weekly claim?

	Why do I need a Personal Identification Number (PIN)?

	How do I request a new PIN?

	When should I file an unemployment claim?

	What information do I need to file a weekly or biweekly claim?

	How will I receive my payments?

	How do I change my direct deposit bank account information?

	How will correspondence be sent to me?

	How do I have federal income tax and/or child support withheld?

	What if I have a change in my status?

	What if I receive a notice of overpayment of benefits?

	*Maintaining eligibility for unemployment benefits*

	Do I have to do anything to continue my eligibility?

	Are you able to work?

	Are you available for work?

	Are you attending school?

	Are you actively seeking work?

	Have you been offered a job?

	Have you reported earnings and income?

	What do I do if I receive a Notice of Eligibility Issue?


IV.	Filing an appeal to a determination

	How do I file an appeal from an initial determination?

	How do I file an appeal from a redetermination?

	How do I file an appeal to common pleas court?

	What are the time limits for filing appeals?

	Should I file claims during an appeal?

	Do I have a right to representation at my appeal?