Extended Unemployment Benefits

According to the South Carolina Employment Security Commission, the unemployment rate was 12.1% in the month of June. Chances are that you or someone you know is impacted by the high rate of unemployment.

That being the case, you are probably worried about what’s going to happen after you’ve used up all 26 weeks of your South Carolina unemployment benefits. Worry no more.

During February of 2009, President Barack Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. It extends the time that people have access to Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) for up to 20 weeks.

Visit the South Carolina Employment Security Commission at http://www.sces.org/ui/claimant/index.htm to file your claim online. You can also file your claims by telephone through the TelClaim system. Use the system to certify you have met the weekly eligibility requirement. You can reach the TelClaim system by dialing 1-866-831-1724 toll free. If your Social Security Number ends in an even number, call the system on Sunday. Otherwise, call the system on Monday.

Remember that when you file your weekly claim, you need to report work you performed and any wages earned during the week even if you have not been paid. In addition, you must actively be looking for full-time work. You also must be physically capable of working. In addition, you must be willing and ready to take whatever type of suitable employment you are offered. If you’re requested to report to the local Employment Service office, you must follow instructions or you could be denied benefits.

To remain eligible for South Carolina unemployment benefits, you must seek full-time work for yourself in a suitable occupation. If you do not, you might be declared ineligible to receive benefits. Be sure to take advantage of all the resources available to you through the South Carolina Employment Security Commission.
As a resident of South Carolina who is unemployed through no fault of your own, you have the right to unemployment insurance benefits.

With those rights come responsibilities. Make sure you are totally familiar with your rights and responsibilities. That way, you can continue to receive your benefits on your road to gainful employment.