Application Questions

Choices for Separation

Lack of Work
Laid off, your position was abolished, the business closed, or the plant shut down.

Quit
Voluntarily leaving suitable work without good cause attributable to the employer.

Discharged​
Dismissed for violation of company rules, neglected given job responsibilities, etc.

Questions Asked When You File a Claim for Unemployment Benefits

Address, contact, and mail delivery preference

You will be asked to verify/update your mailing address, contact information, and mail delivery preference.

Did you file and/or work out-of-state within the last 18 months?

If Yes, you’ll also be asked to list which state(s) you have filed/worked in within the last 18 months.

Did you work for the federal government and/or military within the last 18 months?

If Yes, you’ll be asked additional information concerning your employment/service within the last 18 months.

Employment History

Our online system will gather all known employment under your SSN for the prior 18 months. You’ll select each employer entry and complete a short questionnaire concerning your employment there.

Questionnaires include dates of hire/separation, type of employment and pay amount, whether you received deductible post-employment income (i.e., severance package), and your separation reason (i.e., laid off due to lack of work).

Are you able and available and seeking work as directed by the department?

Are you currently attending school?

Are you a paid-up member of a labor union?

Are you currently receiving workers’ compensation?

Are you a business owner, independent contractor, or self employed worker and only received a 1099 tax form last year?

Do you make or owe child support payments?

If Yes, you’ll be asked to provide which state(s) you currently owe child support payments in.

Payment Preference

You may select to either receive payment via a state-issued Way2Go debit card, or enter a checking or savings account for direct deposit.

Tax Withholding

Unemployment benefits are tax deductible. In Tennessee this is only applicable for federal taxes (10% of your weekly benefit amount). It is up to you if you would like for this federal tax to be withheld each week or not. If you have questions concerning this, please consult with your tax advisor.