Three Things To Do When Applying for Unemployment Benefits In Maryland
The 2020 emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the Maryland economy, businesses, and workers, but things are improving.
Maryland’s September 2020 unemployment rate was 6.9%, reports The Baltimore Sun in their article: “Maryland’s Unemployment Rate Dips to 6.9%....” September 18, 2020).
Plus, according to national statistics, the unemployment rate has improved since March. For instance, U.S. unemployment claims by out-of-work, able-bodied adults reached close to 25 million weekly at first. Now, it is closer to 7.5 million weekly, according to the U.S. Dept. of Labor. See U.S. D.O.L., New Release, “Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims” (November 12, 2020).
Maryland has a well-established online unemployment benefits system at Maryland’s new “One Beacon” online portal. While the role out during spring was difficult, One Beacon is improved. Here are three tips for applying:
1. Use the same application for Maryland and 2020 COVID-19 Benefits
The unemployment insurance program pays benefits to workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own and meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
The current “One Beacon” system permits filing for regular unemployment benefits, federal COVID-19 benefits available in 2020, and related unemployment benefits to COVID-19 under Maryland law. You can find out more as well as a link to the application by clicking here.
2. Read up on the new Maryland COVID-19 law
There are special rules that permit people isolated at home or quarantined due to doctor’s orders to qualify for unemployment benefits. Further, if you have a reasonable fear of COVID-19 at work because of hazardous conditions and lack of precautions, that can constitute “good cause” to quit and still receive unemployment benefits.
For a prior article that summarizes Maryland’s related COVID-19 Law, click here.
3. Gather all evidence in case of denial of unemployment benefits denial
Most employees who face denial of unemployment benefits due so because of what the law calls “misconduct” or “gross misconduct.”
Without a doubt, each application for unemployment benefits shall be subject to a case by case analysis, as are all unemployment benefit claims. So if you were good at work, or simply not wrong as said, you should gather that evidence in advance - to use if and as needed.
If you’re looking for an employment and family law attorney in Towson, MD, reach out to Mosson Law, LLC.
I take a mindful approach to the practice of law and aim to provide my clients with strategic and holistic advice during the legal process. I also consult with people about employment and family matters, behind the scenes, and to appear at courts and before administrative bodies and agencies.
Gregg H. Mosson, Esq.
Mosson Law, LLC
ABOUT: Our founder and experienced attorney, Mr. Mosson, focuses on representing employees in claims of illegal discrimination, illegal retaliation, disability rights violations, wrongful terminations, and when seeking owed wages. He represents family members as well who are navigating the complexities of separation, divorce, custody, and alimony. He also serves people seeking disability benefits from Social Security. His experience and knowledge in these areas of the law are vast and helpful to the clients he represents. For more details, please click here or contact us by clicking here.