The first rule for unemployment benefits in Minnesota is record keeping. Wait, you don’t expect an appeal or denial for benefits, right? Whether this is accurate or not, nobody can stop an audit or appeal made by an employer.
Thus, the first rule specific to eligibility for benefits in MN is the opportunity to create your own record for the discovery stage of an unemployment appeal.
Record Keeping 101: First Unemployment Rule
In my experience, there are two places an applicant can find records important to their claim or audit:
- At work
- At home.
Sometimes, getting evidence from work is difficult (but not impossible). For this reason, I love the idea of creating a log at home which includes:
- Fresh notes from the events that led to a discharge,
- Hours spent looking for a new job,
- Jobs and careers that were pursued.
Records at Work
Sometimes, folks will contact me needing help with an employer who lies. Other times, applicants seeking benefits in Minnesota need help tracking down an important e-mail or personal improvement plan.
Luckily, Applicants can use the rules for a subpoena to their advantage. Other times, Minnesota’s statutes on employment records and one’s right to obtain such records are even more significant support during the unemployment process.
Records at Home: Fresh Notes
I know most people think they will never forget the events that led to their job ending. However, my experience suggests otherwise. It is very natural for details to fall to the wayside.
As a result, take 15 minutes and type-up details like time of day, co-workers and their job title and or what you were working on at the time of the event.
Records at Home: Hours Spent Looking for a Job
Ten years ago, it might have taken 10-15 hours of cold calling just to find a reasonable opportunity. Now, we can set up instant notifications at nearly every job board and announcement on social media. (By the way, did you check out the social media links and follow my feeds?) If not, please check them out.
Anyways, my point is this: keep track of your records. Efficiency is not a curse. But, tending to your garden wile your phone is in your pocket likely is not a job search activity.
Thus, keep your eye on the prize.
Records at Home: Job Applications and Resumes
It is easy to log and track jobs sought because we can keep copies of resumes very easily. Between screen grabs and the snipping tool on your computer, every online job submission should be easily obtainable.
Not to mention, you are going to need this information as you follow-up with a phone call, e-mail, etc. No, this is not a lost art and I think it is very important for applicants focused on a new job.
First Rule for Unemployment in Minnesota
I know the information identified above seems trivial. As an unemployment lawyer, I see way to many appeals that might have been more successful had applicants kept better records.
Of course, I believe there are other ways too improve a case, when applicants have problems with their claim. Nonetheless, stay positive and I look forward to meeting with you if you see the need.
