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 either online or over the phone.

Connecticut Legal Services also has compiled several helpful online pamphlets:

Your Rights when Applying for Unemployment

Applying for Unemployment after being Fired (en espanol)

Applying for Unemployment after Quitting (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, the Connecticut Unemployment Action Network, run by UConn Law School students, may be able to provide assistance in filing an unemployment appeal.

Collecting your Last Paycheck

Good information regarding 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, known as COBRA.  Be sure to read your COBRA paperwork carefully, and adhere to the deadlines for electing COBRA.

In addition, under the terms of the recently-passed stimulus bill, the federal government approved a plan to subsidize 65 percent of the premium for up to nine months. To be eligible, you need to have been forced out of your job between Sept. 1, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2009. Also, your income in the year you receive the subsidy cannot be more than $125,000 for individuals or $250,000 for married couples filing their taxes jointly.  In addition, If you lost your job after Sept. 1, 2008, and declined Cobra coverage, you’ll now get another chance. Call your former employer in the next two months to find out how this will work.

Resources for Job Seekers in Connecticut

Connecticut Public Libraries are an excellent, and often overlooked, free resource

The Center for Professional Development

Connecticut Department of Labor provides an extensive Job Seekers Guide

General Resources

The Unemployment Lifeline is a fantastic all-around resource.

In addition, the United Way has assembled a helpful and detailed online pamphlet for people who are recently unemployed