Most Common Reasons Unemployment Claims are Denied in New Jersey
If you were laid off in New Jersey, you may be qualified to get unemployment benefits. They are not paid out automatically. To obtain unemployment benefits, you must file an unemployment case. An employer can opt to deny such a claim. Here, our New Jersey unemployment attorney highlights the most common reasons why claims are denied.
#1: The Employer Claims You Quit (Without Good Cause)
One of the most common reasons for a New Jersey unemployment denial is a finding that the worker voluntarily left the job without good cause attributable to the work. The legal issue is not simply whether the employee had a good personal reason to resign. The issue is whether the reason was work-related and sufficiently compelling. Unsafe working conditions, a substantial unilateral change in job duties, unpaid wages, or serious harassment may support eligibility if properly documented. However, if you quit without cause, you may be denied unemployment benefits.
#2: The Employer Alleges Misconduct
Misconduct is the second most common reason why unemployment claims are denied in New Jersey. A termination does not automatically disqualify a worker from New Jersey unemployment benefits. The key question is why the employee was fired. New Jersey law distinguishes ordinary poor performance from misconduct connected with the work. Misconduct generally requires something beyond “bad performance.”
#3: You Lacked Sufficient Wages Earned to Be Covered By the Law
Not every employee in New Jersey is covered by unemployment insurance. Some claims are denied for monetary eligibility reasons rather than separation reasons. New Jersey unemployment benefits are based on covered employment and wages earned during the applicable base period. If the wage records do not show enough qualifying earnings, the New Jersey Department of Labor (NJDOL) may issue an invalid monetary determination.
#4: You Were Not Able, Available, and Actively Seeking Suitable Work
In New Jersey, unemployment insurance is meant as a bridge to help people find new employment. To obtain benefits, you need to remain in the workforce. A claim may be denied or interrupted if NJDOL finds that the claimant was not able to work, not available for suitable work, or not making required work-search efforts. Medical restrictions, lack of childcare, school schedules, travel, incarceration, transportation problems, or refusing available work can all create eligibility issues.
#5: There is a Mistake on Your Paperwork
Finally, some unemployment claims are denied for paperwork reasons. Administrative problems can also cause denials, delays, or overpayment findings. A claimant must file the initial claim accurately, respond to NJDOL requests for information, verify identity when required, and certify for weekly benefits. If you believe there is a paperwork mistake, an experienced New Jersey unemployment claims attorney can help you resolve it.
Get Help From a New Jersey Unemployment Lawyer Today
At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, our New Jersey unemployment attorney has the knowledge and experience that you can rely on. If your unemployment claim was denied, please do not hesitate to contact us today to set up a strictly confidential case evaluation. From our Monmouth County office, we handle unemployment claims statewide in New Jersey.
