Helena, MT—Unemployment insurance is designed to provide individuals who are out of work with temporary financial assistance. In order to qualify for benefits, you must have lost your job through no fault of your own, worked in Montana during the past 12 months, and earned a minimum amount of wages established by Montana guidelines (1).
Essentially, what this means is that if you quit your job, you likely won’t be entitled to collect unemployment insurance.
What should I do if my employer reduced my hours and I’m not earning enough?
If your employer has cut your hours to a point where you’re unable to earn a reasonable amount in wages, you may still qualify for unemployment.
Sometimes, the state will provide unemployment insurance to a person who is considered under-employed. This means if your employer intentionally cuts your hours with the hopes that you’ll quit, you may be able to use this as your basis for filing an unemployment insurance claim.
Here are a few reasons why unemployment insurance claims are denied.
An unemployment insurance claim may be denied if you left your job for personal reasons or any of the following apply (2):
- You were suspended or discharged from your job for an act of misconduct.
- You are on a leave of absence that was approved by your employer.
- You failed to provide accurate information or respond to a request for additional information.
- Are considered self-employed full-time.
- Are receiving workers’ compensation for an on-the-job injury.
- Are not willing to work 40 hours per week.
- Have decided not to work due to “a strike or labor union dispute.”
You may be able to collect unemployment if any of the circumstances apply.
- You were laid off or your hours were reduced through no fault of your own.
- You left your job “and can show it was for good cause related to the job.” For instance, if you were sexually harassed at work or had to leave because you were working in a hostile environment, you might be entitled to collect unemployment if you meet all other requirements.
- You are unemployed because “you or your child were a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault.”
What if I was denied unemployment insurance but I know I am entitled to it?
Every system has its flaws and sometimes they can interfere with a person’s ability to collect the benefits they are entitled to. If you were denied unemployment benefits and would like to discuss the matter with a professional who can help, start searching for attorneys near me.
An employment law attorney in Helena, Montana will be able to determine if you qualify for benefits and assist you with trying to obtain them given you meet all the requirements. To get connected with a Helena, Montana employment law lawyer nearby to you, contact USAttorneys.com today.
You want the unemployment benefits you’re entitled to, and an employment law attorney can help you get them.
Have questions about this article or a legal concern? Call 800-672-3103.
