According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 44 percent of Arizona’s workers are not currently employed. In fact, Arizona ranks in the bottom ten U.S. states for percentage of workers who are gainfully employed.
Many of Arizona’s employees are not currently working due to heath concerns or disabling injuries sustained while on the job. For these reasons, many Arizonans may be considering filing for workers’ compensation or unemployment benefits.
Eligibility for unemployment benefits in Arizona depends on a number of circumstances, many of which are complex and difficult to understand. The length of time you were employed, the monetary amount you earned while employed, and the reason you are no longer employed all contribute to your eligibility.
While most Arizona employees are aware they may collect unemployment if they are laid off, many are not aware of other circumstances in which they may be eligible to collect unemployment.
For example, an employee is not automatically disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits if they quit or resign, as opposed to being terminated or laid off. If you left your job for reasons other than “lack of work,” the Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES) may still take your eligibility for benefits into consideration.
In many instances, leaving work due to a health or physical condition will not disqualify you from receiving unemployment benefits. The ADES has regulations that address whether an employee’s working conditions posed an undue risk to their health or safety. If these regulations apply to you, you may still be eligible for full unemployment benefits.
Additionally, employees who are not currently working due to an on-the-job injury may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. If your on-the-job injury resulted in a temporary disability, you may be eligible to receive weekly or monthly benefits until you are able to return to work. If your injury resulted in a permanent disability, you may be eligible to receive a lump-sum payment.
The amount of money you receive in workers’ compensation benefits depends on the classification of your injury. Your doctor will determine your classification by rating your level of impairment, as well as determining if you will be impaired temporarily or permanently.
While unemployment eligibility cases can be complex, workers’ compensation cases can be particularly complicated and frustrating. Many workers’ compensation claims require extensive paperwork and documentation.
If you were hurt on the job and need quality legal help with your workers’ compensation claim, contact the knowledgeable and experienced workers’ comp attorneys in Phoenix at Phillips Law Group today. We can help walk you through the process and help ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
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