Is my wife monetarily eligible for unemployment benefits in Florida?

by Herbert
(Altamonte Springs, FL)

Hello,

Thanks for taking the time to help. Here are the details:

Both my wife and I used to work fulltime. However, over three years ago, when my 2nd child was born, he had several health issues. Therefore, it was necessary for her to stay home to tend to him. Fortunately, most of the health issues have been addressed and she is looking at going back to work now. Getting unemployment benefits were not an issue because I had steady income and was not worth the trouble. However, things have changes now as I got laid off last month. I know I will qualify for the benefits, but under the circumstances, we wonder if she would be able to qualify as well.

Thanks again for your assistance.



Hi Herbert,

Unfortunately, Florida does not have a statute which would provide for an extended or alternative base period for them to look at and would find your wife monetarily eligible.

Florida looks at the wages earned (relative to the date the claim is filed) in the first four of the last five COMPLETED quarters. Anyone filing now between 4/1/09 and 6/30/09 would have a base period of 1/1/08 through 12/31/08. Unless a person has "qualifying" wages within those dates they cannot get unemployment benefits.

You are very welcome Herbert, I'm just sorry I couldn't give you a different answer. I wish you and your family all the best.

Chris