How to File for Unemployment in Delaware

Just like any other state across the country, unemployment in Delaware affects many people, especially during the current COVID-19 wave. To curb the spread of this disease, many employees must now stay at home. This move slows down the infection rate, and helps flatten the curve. But in doing so, they forego salaries they depend on for survival. For this reason, most people approach the Delaware Division of Unemployment Insurance (DDUI) to apply for unemployment insurance benefits. So, what do you need to know before filing for UI in Delaware? Read through this guide to learn more:

An Overview of Unemployment Insurance Benefits in Delaware

Before filing for UI benefits, it’s essential to have various pieces of information and documents with you. They include:your active phone number, social security card number, previous employer’s name, address, phone numbers over the last one and a half years, state-issued driver’s license or identification card and banking information for payments through direct deposit.

If you have all these, then you can file for the unemployment insurance benefits by phone or online. However, it is not guranteed that you will automatically qualify as you must meet all the set eligibility standards. According to the Eligibility website, here are the specific requirements to obtain UI benefits in Delaware:

• Accurately report reasons for loss of your job when filing your claim
• If you receive weekly gross wages such as temporary or part-time work, ensure you’ve communicated this as well.
• Ready, willing, and available to start working
• Perform an active as well as ongoing job search
• File for all the benefits weekly when out of work
• You’re also expected to register a Jobseeker’s account with the Employment and Training Division.
• It’s imperative to state and report any changes to your address in writing and personally signed alongside the date of filing the claim, and your social security number.

You’ll also be required to send a Monetary Determination after the initial approval.

The law also requires you to make known any wages you receive during the benefits period. Failure to do this leads to the repayment of benefits collected unlawfully. You’ll also be subjected to a 15% penalty and 18% interest every year. Additionally, the state can disqualify you from receiving any UI benefits for a year or prosecuted in a court of law. Apart from wages, Delaware state requires applicants to report any payments received from annuities, any periodic payments, or pensions. Some of these payments include disability, workers’ compensation, bonuses, and severance payments.

Filing an Initial Claim and Weekly Benefits

After collecting all the required information, you can file your initial unemployment insurance benefits claim in person or online. Filing online can be only under specific circumstances, including If you’re an unemployed Delaware resident or have reduced working hours, filling against a former military or federal employer, and if you’re not a US citizen. After filing an online claim, a confirmation number is sent to you for printing to assist in claim tracking.

In case you aren’t approved to start receiving benefits after your initial claim, consider filling a weekly request. Also known as ‘certifying for benefits,’ this helps you to claim weekly benefits when unemployed. According to the Unemployment Claims website, you can file for ongoing benefits through TeleBenefits and WebBenefits in Delaware. Either of these claims filed on working days before 10.30 a.m. is usually processed on the same day. In both cases, applicants are asked several questions that they must answer truthfully before approval. These questions may relate to ongoing job search efforts, previous wages, etc. Failing to be honest in your answers can land applicants in trouble, and they may incur loss of benefits, penalties, and attempt to defraud the state.

How Much Can You Receive in Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

Delaware residents can enjoy up to 26 weeks of benefits with $20 set as the minimum amount each person can receive weekly. Applicants can receive benefits through debit cards or direct deposits. Hence, during the application process, you’ll need to select either the Debit Card or Direct Deposit options. According to Delaware’s official website, the state can offer a weekly minimum of $20 in unemployment benefits and a weekly maximum of up to $400. The weekly benefit amount (WBA) is determined by dividing your total income for the highest-earning quarters by 46. For instance, if you earned $9,000 in two of your highest-paid quarters, expect to receive approximately $195 weekly. Check out more information and charts concerning this on the state’s claimant handbook.

How Long Can You Collect Your Unemployment Benefits

Generally, you are allowed to collect your unemployment benefits in 26 weeks. However, during high unemployment times, Delaware will enable applicants to claim these benefits for a more extended period. Additionally, the state’s CARES Act can help in extending your benefits period for another 13 weeks. However, after immediately finding new employment, it’s a must to stop claiming the UI benefits.

What Happens in Case of a Disqualification?

Several issues may arise on your UI claim, which can lead to disqualification. After disqualification, your benefits are canceled unless you file an appeal to reverse the rejection.There are various appeal strategies you can pursue in case the initial ruling doesn’t favor you. Benefits can be withheld for weeks already received, and the state may require you to repay these benefits as well. Additionally, various penalties come with disqualifications.

Conclusion

Reportedly, millions of people have successfully apllied for unemployment claims as the corona virus pandemic continues to rander many jobless. Filling for an Unemployment claim in Delaware can involve many things. However, this guide will help you fast track the application process. After your UI claim is approved, you can have an easy time dealing with the difficult financial times as you look for alternative employment.