CNN Money: Unemployed? More help for you

[Omaha Steve]

http://money.cnn.com/2008/11/20/news/economy/unemployment_benefits/?postversion=2008112112

The Federal government has extended benefits for out of work Americans. Here are 5 things every worker should know about their unemployment check.

By Jessica Dickler, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Last Updated: November 21, 2008: 12:25 PM ET

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- President Bush signed The Unemployment Extension Act of 2008 into law Friday, lengthening the period of government assistance to Americans struggling in the shrinking job market.

The measure helps people whose benefits have recently expired, extending benefits by seven weeks in all states, and extending them for another 13 weeks on top of that in states with unemployment rates that have averaged 6% or higher over the most recent three months.(See state unemployment rates.)

So those who live in a high unemployment states will receive a total of 20 more weeks and nearly half of the states fit that criteria as of October, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Workers typically get 26 weeks of unemployment benefits, and it's not uncommon for the government to extend that during economic slowdowns.

Worried about how to make ends meet without a paycheck? Here's what you should know to take advantage of the new law.

How you qualify: To be eligible, you must be unemployed through no fault of your own and be actively seeking work. Requirements vary from state to state. Generally, wages earned and time on the job determine if you qualify and the level of assistance you will receive.

FULL story at link.

[madrchsod]

1. i hope they included another 13 weeks of emergency funds

i received 13 weeks this summer ..it was`t much but it was better than nothing

[dualitybites]

2. Shucks...you got my hopes up

So you have to have WORKED to get this money? That leaves me out.:grr: