When would an employee typically file for unemployment benefits?

An employee typically files for unemployment benefits after being laid off or terminated without cause because these situations qualify individuals for financial assistance while they seek new employment. Unemployment benefits are designed to support workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own, such as during layoffs due to company downsizing or economic downturns. This safety net allows employees to have some financial support while they are looking for a new job.

In contrast, filing for unemployment after voluntarily leaving a job is generally not accepted unless there are extenuating circumstances, such as a hostile work environment. Maternity leave and medical leave are usually covered by separate policies and protections, like short-term disability, and do not typically qualify for unemployment benefits since the employee has not lost their job but is temporarily away from work.