Unemployment petitioners in New Jersey asking, “What can I do if unemployment denied me benefits?” have several options. After reviewing eligibility for unemployment benefits, an unemployment denial appeal may be filed if the petitioner believes that he or she has been wrongfully denied. For more information about getting unemployment benefits denied, the petitioner may also schedule an appointment with a claims examiner for an in-depth evaluation of the claim.
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If an individual is denied unemployment benefits in NJ, a letter will be sent outlining the basis for denial. There are several reasons why an otherwise eligible individual may be disqualified for unemployment benefits.
If terminated, an individual may schedule an interview with a claims examiner to determine the best course of action to become eligible for benefits.
If an individual quit or retired from the job without “good cause connected to work,” he or she may have unemployment compensation benefits denied. “Good cause connected to work” is defined as a reason relating to the job that caused the individual to have no choice but to quit.
An individual who has voluntarily quit his or her job must return to work for at least 8 weeks and earn at least 10 times the amount of the WBR to become qualified for unemployment benefits.
If an individual has voluntarily left or retired from their job and is interested in unemployment benefits, he or she are welcome to schedule an appointment with a claims examiner to learn more about what can be done to remove benefit disqualification.
Full-time students may be denied unemployment benefits unless the student earns enough wages (excluding during recess periods) to qualify for a claim.
Students attending a vocational or training program to receive a job will have to schedule an appointment with a claims examiner to determine eligibility.
Individuals who own and manage a company part-time, in addition to working full-time elsewhere, may be eligible for benefits if he or she is terminated from their full-time job through no fault of their own. The individual’s part-time wages will be deduced from their weekly benefits.
Applicants who are denied benefits because of a wrongful termination may schedule an appointment with a claims examiner.
The applicant’s employer will be invited to attend the interview. The applicant has the right to an attorney, though it is not required. Both the applicant and the former employer are encouraged to bring any documents as well as first-hand witness statements. All evidence may be faxed or mailed to the scheduling office along with the applicant’s Social Security Number.
During the interview, the applicant, employer, and/or attorney(s) will have an opportunity to present the evidence as well as ask and answer questions.
After the interview, if the applicant is still disqualified from benefits, a letter will be sent in the mail detailing the reason for denial.
If an applicant opposes the determination for denial of benefits, he or she reserves the right to appeal.
The applicant will receive in writing all judgments concerning denial of benefits. Appeal rights are outlined on every determination document sent to the applicant. An appeal must be filed within 7 days of receiving the determination. Appeal extensions may be granted in extenuating circumstances. Failure to file an appeal within the given time frame will result in the determination being finalized.
After the appeal letter is sent, a hearing with the Appeal Tribunal will be scheduled either over the phone or in person. It is the applicant’s responsibility to compile all necessary evidence to prepare for the appeal. The applicant’s former employer may be invited to participate if the reason for benefit denial is related to work.
The decision will be made by the Appeal Tribunal at the hearing. If the applicant is still denied unemployment compensation benefits, he or she has the right to appeal again with the Board of Review. If the applicant is granted benefits, the Division of Unemployment will send all withheld payments to the applicant.
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