When can I file for unemployment? (work, state, requirements, paperwork)

[Lynn1]

I just found out that I will be out of a job by next Friday. Can I go ahead and start the unemployment paperwork now, and say that my last day is next Friday, to try to cut down on the initial waiting period or do I have to wait until next Friday? How does the state know what your last day is?

[Thursday007]

This varies by state so your best bet is to call the unemployment office and simply ask them. Or, based on the zip code in your profile I was able to locate your state's requirements and step by step process for filing there.

http://www.how2dothings.com/how-to-f...texas-143.html

[diorgirl]

Originally Posted by Lynn1

I just found out that I will be out of a job by next Friday. Can I go ahead and start the unemployment paperwork now, and say that my last day is next Friday, to try to cut down on the initial waiting period or do I have to wait until next Friday? How does the state know what your last day is?

(1) You cannot file for unemployment before your actual last day of work -- unless your employer has made some special arrangement for you to do so.
(2) All states routinely confirm the period you worked for your last employer (first to last day) in the process of determining your eligibility for unemployment benefits.

[moved]

File when you get home from work on your last day.

[artwomyn]

Wait until after your last day at work. There's always the chance, however remote it may be, that they may decide to keep you on their payroll longer. You're not officially out of work, until after your last day of work.