starting side job (self employment) and unemployment benefits (collecting, claim, EDD) - benefits, rate, legislation, insurance, jobless, extension, jobs, employers, employees, hiring, resumes, occupations, government, laws, unions, contracts, workers - City-Data Forum

BigFish_LittleFish · 03-28-2011, 06:10 PM

I am collecting unemployment benefits and am trying to figure out a way to create part-time work for myself while looking for full-time employment, and still be eligible for UC . I contacted the agency by email (phones are impossible), and they said that I need to report all earnings (yes, I know this) and if I am pursuing my part-time work as self employment, then the state of FL needs to review this "in depth". (I got no additional reply when I asked how this was done, or if I would lose my benefit). Does anyone know how or if I can start a side business, or freelance and NOT lose unemployment benefits? Thank you!

Desertdarlene · 03-28-2011, 06:23 PM

I'm glad you're contacting them first before doing the self employment. I would check your state's website or handbook thoroughly to make sure it is allowed and how they figure it in to your benefits.

In my state, California, what they mean by "in depth" is that they have to interview you first to find out exactly what you are doing before they can officially approve you. Mostly, they're making sure that you're still able to look for work or will take a full-time job. Some states deduct the income you earn from your benefit amount, some only deduct a percentage based on how many days you work on your self employment. I'm not sure about your state.

BigFish_LittleFish · 03-28-2011, 09:08 PM

Thanks Desertdarlene! It's so hard to get proper information, even the website is pretty vague. I would like for FL to be the same as CA for the meaning of "in depth". That would work for me, since I would still be available to look for work, and take a full time job. I will contact them again through email and see if I can't get a more detailed answer. Thanks again!

BigFish_LittleFish · 03-29-2011, 11:10 AM

This was the answer I got back from the agency through email:

"We cannot determine your eligibility prior to the review process. If you have indicated that you are self-employed your claim is forwarded for review by our adjudication unit. The unit would then review your claim based upon the circumstance given and make a final determination. You would then be notified by mail regarding the status."

It sounds like the same thing as in CA-

Desertdarlene · 03-29-2011, 01:17 PM

Yes, it sounds like they're going to set up an interview or something similar with you.

I have the same problem dealing with CA's EDD through e-mail, too. I get strange answers half the time. It's almost like a robot is sending them out.

kevinm · 03-30-2011, 07:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BigFish_LittleFish

I am collecting unemployment benefits and am trying to figure out a way to create part-time work for myself while looking for full-time employment, and still be eligible for UC . I contacted the agency by email (phones are impossible), and they said that I need to report all earnings (yes, I know this) and if I am pursuing my part-time work as self employment, then the state of FL needs to review this "in depth". (I got no additional reply when I asked how this was done, or if I would lose my benefit). Does anyone know how or if I can start a side business, or freelance and NOT lose unemployment benefits? Thank you!

You can work part-time and your "benefit" will be adjusted to reflect your new earnings by subtracting the amount you are getting from working from your UI check. That is the fair thing to do for the taxpayers. Why should you be permitted 100% benefits AND work part-time?

ladygp55 · 07-05-2012, 10:55 AM

I have recently opened a claim in Florida for unemployment benefits. I am a hair stylist and am considering a self employment situation. However, I will have considerable expenses related to my income.....as a hairdresser I will be paying for rent and products which will amount to about 30% of my income. Will I need to report the gross or net amount of income to Florida Unemployment office? And will my benefits be reduced by the gross or net amount of income?

Chyvan · 07-05-2012, 12:28 PM

You'll report the gross, and you won't be allowed to deduct the expenses for unemployment purposes.

Don't do the self employment thing. It's just too risky, and you can end up in a situation where you net less working than you'd get on UI, or end up with no UI at all. Just keep looking for the right job.

You can do the self employment thing when your benefits run out. It's much easier to take something over nothing at that point.