Overview of Florida Unemployment Benefits
Florida unemployment benefits are available to residents who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own and meet certain eligibility criteria. The benefit amount is calculated based on your highest quarterly earnings in the base period and is currently up to $275 weekly. The duration of benefits ranges from 12 to 23 weeks, depending on the state’s unemployment rate.
Funding and Application Process
The Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund in Florida, funded by taxes on employers, pays out these benefits. There are contributory and reimbursing employers, with contributory employers potentially being relieved of COVID-19-related benefit charges.
Applying for unemployment benefits in Florida can be done online, taking approximately 30-60 minutes. Claimants are required to report their job search activities and part-time earnings every two weeks. The process has been adjusted during the pandemic to incorporate new federal programs that supplement state benefits.
Additional Information and Contact Details
- How Unemployment Money is Distributed: Florida calculates unemployment benefits by dividing the highest base period quarter wages by 26, with a maximum benefit of $275 per week.
- Federal Assistance: The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program added an additional $600 per week to state benefits, funded by the federal government.
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Contact Information:
- For Florida unclaimed funds department: (888) 258-2253 or (850)413-5555
- For Florida Department of Financial Services: (850) 413-3100
- To backdate your claim: 833-FL-APPLY
Key Points on Florida Unemployment Benefits
Florida residents may receive up to $275 weekly in state benefits, plus an extra $600 weekly through the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program. The state has specific requirements for maintaining eligibility, including regular benefit requests and reporting of job search activities.