What are the eligibility requirements for unemployment benefits in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the eligibility requirements for unemployment benefits are designed to ensure that applicants have a genuine need for assistance while they seek new employment. To qualify for unemployment benefits, individuals must meet several key criteria. First, applicants must have earned a certain amount in wages during their base period, which typically consists of the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before the claim is filed. The Connecticut Department of Labor assesses whether the applicant has sufficient earnings to qualify for benefits based on their employment history. Second, individuals must be unemployed through no fault of their own. This generally means that they were laid off, their jobs were eliminated, or they were discharged for reasons that do not involve misconduct. If an individual voluntarily leaves their job, they may not be eligible for benefits unless they can demonstrate that they had good cause for doing so. Third, applicants must be able and available to work. This means they must be actively looking for work and capable of accepting suitable employment when it is offered. Lastly, individuals must register for work with the Connecticut Department of Labor and engage in job-seeking activities as prescribed by the department. It is important for applicants to provide accurate information when filing their claims, as discrepancies may affect eligibility. For the most current and detailed information regarding unemployment benefits, it is advisable to consult the official website of the Connecticut Department of Labor, where one can find additional resources and the latest updates.