COLORADO UNEMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY

Unemployment Insurance in Colorado

 

Although today’s unemployment rate has dropped significantly lower than its peak of 10% in 2009, finding the right job still takes a certain amount of luck and perseverance. For the average worker, conducting a job search after a lay off can mean 5 to 6 months without income. Despite this statistic, many qualified employees miss out on unemployment benefits due to misinformation and missed deadlines. Don’t let that be you!

How do I qualify for unemployment benefits?

To qualify for unemployment benefits in Colorado, you must:

• Be unemployed through no fault of your own;
• Be able, available, and actively seeking work; and
• Have earned $2,500 in the last year or so.

If I was fired from my job, can I still file for unemployment?

Many employees assume that they are only eligible for unemployment benefits if they were laid off, but that isn’t true. The test for eligibility is whether you are unemployed through no fault of your own. Some lessor known qualifying separation reasons include:

• Being fired unfairly;
• No more work for you to do;
• Needing to deal with a domestic violence situation;
• Being fired illegally for reporting discrimination, workplace harassment, or hazardous working conditions; and
• Medical conditions.

What if my unemployment claim is denied?

If Colorado Division of Unemployment Insurance denies your claim, you can file an appeal but you have to do it within 20 days of the decision. Your claim then will be scheduled for a formal hearing, which is your only opportunity to submit evidence through testimony and documentation. After the hearing, a Hearing Officer will issue a written decision on your appeal.

At this stage, hiring an experienced attorney is advisable because they will be able to help you present your case in a legally persuasive manner.  If you think that you were wrongfully terminated, it is especially important to have representation because the unemployment hearing may affect your success with other legal claims.

Hire Us to Represent You

If you are unemployed through no fault of your own, you are likely eligible for Unemployment Benefits. If you are denied Unemployment Benefits, don’t wait to contact us. You have a short window to ask for a hearing and the hearing may be scheduled quickly which will reduce your opportunity to fully prepare. We can help you navigate the unemployment system, including making your best case at a Hearing.