Applying for unemployment benefits in Florida is a necessary process for eligible workers who have lost their jobs. The process is managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO).
The DEO requires all workers seeking unemployment benefits to apply online through the CONNECT system. This system allows workers to submit their application, manage their account, and receive benefit payments.
To apply for unemployment benefits in Florida, you will need to provide certain information, including:
- Social Security number
- Driver’s license or state-issued identification card
- Employment history for the past 18 months, including employer names and addresses, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving
- Contact information for your most recent supervisor
- If you are a separated military member, you will need to provide your DD-214 discharge papers.
- If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to provide documentation proving your authorized work status.
After you submit your application, the DEO will review your information and determine if you are eligible for unemployment benefits. If you are eligible, you will begin receiving weekly benefit payments. The amount you receive will be based on your previous earnings.
You must file your unemployment claim within one week of losing your job. You must also actively search for work while receiving benefits. The DEO will provide you with a list of resources to help you in your job search.
If you have any questions about how to apply for unemployment benefits in Florida, you can visit the DEO website or call their helpline.
In addition to applying for unemployment benefits, employers in Florida are also required to verify the work eligibility of all new hires through the E-Verify system. E-Verify is a free internet-based application operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that allows employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees.
Private employers in Florida with 25 or more employees and all public agencies are required to use E-Verify. Staffing companies are also responsible for verifying the work eligibility of the employees of their client companies.
Employers must verify work eligibility within three business days after the new employee’s first day of work. If the E-Verify system is not available within three business days, employers must use the Employment Eligibility Verification Form (federal USCIS Form I-9). Employers must attest to the use of E-Verify or I-9 on the first reemployment tax return filed each calendar year.
