Are You Recently Unemployed?
This page includes resources that some of our clients have found helpful after being laid off or fired in Connecticut. Also, be sure to take a look at our firm’s answers to frequently asked questions regarding employee rights.
Filing For Unemployment
Applications are processed by the Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL). The application generally can be submitted most easily online here but you can also apply over the phone.
General information about unemployment insurance, including basic eligibility requirements and information about filing a claim, is available from the DOL: Unemployment Insurance Frequently Asked Questions, or you can check out this more detailed guidebook: Claimant’s Guide to Unemployment Insurance.
Connecticut’s Legal Services Organizations also have compiled a very helpful self-help guide: Are You Out of Work? Apply for Unemployment (en espanol).
Filing An Unemployment Appeal Or Defending Your Unemployment Benefits During The Employer’s Appeal
The Department of Labor provides information about appealing an unemployment decision. It is very important to follow the instructions carefully in order to preserve your right to appeal, including adhering to timelines.
In addition, here is an online video that can help you prepare for an unemployment appeal hearing: Preparing For an Appeal Hearing.
Collecting Your Last Paycheck
Good information regarding whether you are entitled to be paid for accrued vacation time and about collecting your final paycheck can be found here. The website, www.canmybossdothat.com, has compiled this information, as well as other helpful information regarding employee rights.
Electing COBRA Coverage
The United States Department of Labor offers a helpful guide on continuation of health care benefits for covered employees, known as COBRA. Be sure to read your COBRA paperwork carefully and adhere to the deadlines for electing COBRA.
COBRA continuation coverage is very often more expensive than the amount you might pay as an active employee for health coverage, and there may be other more affordable options available, such as through a spouse’s plan, the Health Insurance Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) or Medicaid.
Check out the Federal DOL’s website for information about comparing options – On COBRA continuation coverage? Compare your options during Open Enrollment
And to learn more about finding health insurance through Connecticut’s marketplace, check out Access Health CT.
Resources For Job Seekers In Connecticut
Connecticut Department of Labor provides an extensive Job Seekers Guide with great links and resources.
Connecticut also has an online research engine, iConn, through which you can search journal, magazine and newspaper articles.
The Unemployment Lifeline and The Center for Professional Development are two fantastic all-around resources.
In addition, other useful job search websites and resources include State of Connecticut Employment Connection, CareerBuilder, CT.Jobs, Monster and Indeed, to name just a few.
Contact Us
If you believe you may have lost your job for an illegal reason, feel free to call our Hartford office at 860-454-9608 or use our convenient online contact form to make an appointment to discuss your situation with our attorneys.