What’s the Deal?
Unemployment
A lot of people across the country are finding themselves without jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses are having to reduce hours or close completely, leaving many people without a job. You or someone you know may even be one of those unlucky persons. Just know, you are not alone. This pandemic and quarantine are new for all of us. For some people, this is the first time they have been in the situation where they are unemployed. They are confused, worried and are unsure of what to do.
What is unemployment exactly?
Oklahoma Employment Security Commission says:
Unemployment Insurance pays benefits to workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own. Anyone who is separated from a job may file a claim for unemployment benefits. You can file if you quit, were discharged, got laid off or are even out on strike.
You may be eligible for UI benefits if you meet all eligibility requirements. If you qualify, you may receive weekly payments to help cover your living expenses while you search for new employment. To collect benefits, you must be able, available, and actively looking for work during each week in which you are claiming benefits. You must continue to file a weekly claim to continue to receive benefits and meet eligibility requirements in order for the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission to pay you benefits.
Unemployment benefits are made available through taxes paid by your former employer (s) to partially replace your regular earnings and help you meet expenses while you look for another job.
Individuals filing for unemployment benefits are required to register for reemployment services and complete a resume within seven days of initially filing their claim. This must be done online at OKJobMatch.com. This interactive job search tool is designed to help you connect with employers and their job openings. If you live outside of Oklahoma, you must register for work with the employment service in your resident state and provide proof of registration within seven days of filing your claim. – OESC
Where should you start?
The OESC website has a Guide to Unemployment available that walks you through the steps as well as answers the most common Frequently Asked Questions. So that you may find out more about how to navigate the way through unemployment. If you have any questions you can call any of the numbers listed on the Quick Reference Guide page of the Unemployment guide booklet. 
Helpful Links:
