Each state sets its own guidelines for eligibility for unemployment benefits, but you usually qualify if you:

• Are unemployed through no fault of your own. You must be unemployed through no fault of your own. In most states, this means you have to have separated from your last job due to a lack of available work.
• Meet work and wage requirements. You must meet your state’s requirements for wages earned or time worked during an established period of time referred to as a "base period." (In most States, this is usually the first four out of the last five completed calendar quarters prior to the time that your claim is filed.)
• Meet additional state requirements. Find details of your own state’s program by selecting your state below.