Unemployment Insurance in Wisconsin

Unemployment insurance is a government program that provides financial assistance to qualified individuals who have lost their jobs. The program is designed to provide temporary financial support until the recipient can find a new job.

Who Qualifies for Unemployment Insurance in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own may be eligible for unemployment insurance. To qualify, you must have been employed for a specific period of time and have earned a certain amount of wages during that time. In addition, you must be actively seeking new employment and be physically able to work.

There are some exceptions to the eligibility requirements. For example, if you were fired for cause or voluntarily quit your job, you may not be eligible for unemployment insurance.

How Do I Apply for Unemployment Insurance in Wisconsin?

To apply for unemployment insurance in Wisconsin, you must file a claim with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. You can file your claim online or over the phone.

When you file your claim, you will need to provide information about your previous employment, including your employer’s name and address, your dates of employment, and your wages. You will also need to provide information about why you lost your job.

After you file your claim, you will receive a determination from the Department of Workforce Development letting you know whether you are eligible for unemployment insurance.

How Much Will I Receive in Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

The amount of unemployment insurance benefits you will receive in Wisconsin depends on your previous earnings. The weekly benefit amount can range from $54 to $370 per week. The maximum number of weeks you can receive benefits is 26 weeks.

It’s important to note that unemployment insurance benefits are taxable income. You will receive a Form 1099-G at the end of the year showing the amount of benefits you received.

Unemployment Insurance Benefits During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the economy, and many individuals have lost their jobs as a result. In response, the federal government has passed legislation providing additional financial support to individuals through unemployment insurance benefits.

What Additional Benefits Are Available?

The federal government has authorized several additional programs to provide financial assistance to individuals who have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These programs include:

Program
Description
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
Provides unemployment insurance benefits to individuals who are not traditionally eligible for unemployment insurance, such as self-employed individuals or gig workers.
Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC)
Provides additional weeks of unemployment insurance benefits to individuals who have exhausted their regular unemployment insurance benefits.
Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC)
Provides an additional $600 per week in unemployment insurance benefits to eligible individuals.

How Do I Apply for These Benefits?

The additional unemployment insurance benefits available due to the COVID-19 pandemic are administered by the state of Wisconsin. To apply for these benefits, you must first file a claim for regular unemployment insurance benefits through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.

Once you have been determined eligible for unemployment insurance benefits, you will automatically be considered for the additional benefits available due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

FAQ about Unemployment Insurance in Wisconsin

What Should I Do if I Am Denied Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

If you are denied unemployment insurance benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can file an appeal with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development within 14 days of receiving the determination.

Can I Still Receive Unemployment Insurance Benefits If I Am Offered Part-Time Work?

If you are offered part-time work while receiving unemployment insurance benefits, you may still be eligible for partial benefits. The amount of your benefit will be reduced based on the amount you earn from your part-time work.

What Happens If I Am Overpaid in Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

If you are overpaid in unemployment insurance benefits, you will be required to repay the overpayment. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development will work with you to set up a repayment plan.

Can I Receive Unemployment Insurance Benefits If I Am Receiving Workers’ Compensation?

If you are receiving workers’ compensation, you may still be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits if you are able to work and actively seeking new employment.

What Happens If I Move Out of Wisconsin While Receiving Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

If you move out of Wisconsin while receiving unemployment insurance benefits, you may still be able to receive benefits if you move to a state with a reciprocal agreement with Wisconsin. However, you must continue to meet all eligibility requirements.

Conclusion

Unemployment insurance is an important program that provides temporary financial support to individuals who have lost their jobs. In Wisconsin, individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own may be eligible for unemployment insurance.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the economy, and many individuals have lost their jobs as a result. However, additional unemployment insurance benefits are available to help individuals during this challenging time.

If you have lost your job and are in need of financial support, you should consider filing a claim for unemployment insurance benefits in Wisconsin.