The state oversees unemployment benefits for residents who lose their jobs but are not at fault. This temporary arrangement is meant to help you keep your finances stable until you can find another suitable job. You earned the right to collect an unemployment check by working and paying taxes.

Often, benefits are denied, but you can appeal the decision, and an unemployment attorney can help. The process can be stressful if you miss a deadline or fail to provide the correct information. If you do not understand why you were denied, the stress of losing your job can feel even worse. For competent representation in filing or appealing your claim, contact a Los Angeles unemployment compensation lawyer at Erkel Law, P.C.

What Are the Requirements for Successful Unemployment Claims?

To be eligible for unemployment benefits, you have to meet specific criteria when you apply and when you certify your information every two weeks. You must:

  • Possess a Social Security number or, if you are not a United States citizen, authorization to work here
  • Have enough accrued wages during the base period, which is the 12-month period used to determine your claim
  • Be totally or partially unemployed
  • Lose your job through no fault of your own (you did not resign and were not dismissed for misconduct)
  • Be physically able to work, and are available and willing to accept work immediately
  • Look for work each week
  • Be prepared to sign up with an employment agency and keep a record of where you apply for work

A Los Angeles attorney from Erkel Law, P.C. can help determine if you are eligible for job loss compensation, calculate your benefits so you do not lose any money, ensure the required paperwork is filed correctly, and represent you at hearings if your claim is denied.

How an Employment Lawyer Helps You in Appeals Hearings

Claims can be denied for many reasons, including being misclassified as an independent contractor, being accused of not seeking work, failing to respond to a request, being wrongfully terminated, or having incomplete paperwork. However, this does not mean you have no options. An employment lawyer can manage your appeal by representing you at a hearing. This process involves presenting evidence and building a legal argument to challenge the decision. A lawyer will also discuss with you what to expect at the hearing and how to respond to questions from the appeals board.

If your employer disputes your claim, an attorney from Erkel Law, P.C. who is experienced in job loss benefits in Los Angeles can handle communications with administrative law judges and the opposing party to ensure all deadlines are met and legal standards are followed. If you were wrongfully terminated or denied reasonable employment accommodations, an attorney can present a rational legal argument about why you should receive benefits.

Contact an Unemployment Benefits Attorney in Los Angeles

Losing your job for any reason is stressful, and navigating the unemployment process to supplement your wages can make it even harder. One clerical error or failure to answer a request can cause a denial of benefits, forcing you to appeal the decision. You can rely on Erkel Law, P.C. to competently represent you in all unemployment matters so you can focus on other priorities.

A Los Angeles unemployment compensation lawyer will guide you through the application or appeals process. Contact Erkel Law, P.C. today for help meeting the strict requirements to receive the benefits you have earned.

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