How Do I Apply for Unemployment Benefits with the Nebraska Workforce Development?

Throughout America's history, unemployment has been an obstacle that we have faced time and time again. World events are unpredictable, and we never know when our lives will be severely affected. Whether it was through the Great Depression of the 1930's or the Great Recession of 2008, millions of Americans know what it is like to go through the difficult situation of unemployment. Today, a perfect example can be seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, as the entire country has had to shift their way of life to keep themselves out of harm's way. Unfortunately, this virus has severely impacted businesses across the nation, leaving millions of people without jobs. Even if you are lucky enough to remain employed throughout the pandemic, there is no guarantee that this will be the case if another crisis hits. Now is the perfect time to educate yourself on the resources available to you so you will know how to navigate through this challenge. If you live in Nebraska, unemployment is a situation you will be able to easily manage.

The Nebraska Workforce Development aims to improve the workforce development system by addressing workforce needs and supporting workforce programs. Their manual goes into more detail on how members of this board accomplish these goals. To apply for unemployment benefits, you need to submit a claim with the Nebraska Department of Labor. However, before you apply, it is important to review some basic eligibility requirements. First, you must be out of a job through no fault of your own and be able and ready to work full-time and actively seek work. Additional monetary requirements may need to be met, which you will provide information for when you are filing your claim.

If you meet these requirements, you can apply online with no requirements to visit a job center. Click "Log In To Access Unemployment Services" in the middle of the page. If you are a first-time user, you can create a new account with NEworks. Alternatively, you may download the NEworks application to apply from your mobile device. The Nebraska Department of Labor also provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of filling out the application. It takes approximately 21 days from the time you apply to process your claim. While you are waiting for your claim to be processed, you may also file for weekly benefits at www.neworks.nebraska.gov. Keep in mind that after you file your claim, there is an unpaid waiting week. However, you may apply for a waiver so that you can get paid during this week.

If you understand and make use of the resources that are available to you, unemployment will not knock you off your feet. Remain patient and determined and you'll be perfectly fine!