Explore expert unemployment tips, including application guidance, eligibility insights, appeal strategies, and job search advice to help you navigate unemployment successfully.
MN Unemployment login problems look small, but they can have lasting impacts on a claim for benefits.
For example, being unable to request benefits through the DEED website can cause a person to loose hundreds of dollars. Other times, there are identify issues.
If you have an appeal and it is somehow linked to a problem with the a MN Unemployment Login, you found the right place.
Before logging into a benefit account, realize that every screen and question is designed by Minnesota’s Unemployment Insurance Office.
In other words, applications, questionnaires, and appeals must be scrutinized.
Proving Your Unemployment Identify
Proving your identify to the unempoyment office is not as easy as it might appear. The unemployment office uses social security numbers to deceiver between accounts.
In my experience, the unemployment office can confuse accounts with other people. This in itself can be a reason to seek an appeal.
After Logging Into Your Unemployment Account
After logging into your account for the first time, the unemployment website will push you onto applications, questionnaires, and related links.
When applying for unemployment benefits, it is crucial to carefully read and understand every question on the application. Each question is designed to gather specific information that can impact your eligibility.
Misunderstanding or overlooking a question may lead to incorrect responses, which can result in a denial of benefits or delays in receiving them. More importantly, any discrepancies between your application and your statements during an appeal hearing can harm your credibility and weaken a claim.
Requests for Information from the unemployment office in Minnesota can feel repetitive. Minus a few exceptions, Applicants in Minnesota should rarely ignore duplicate requests for information. Here are a handful of thoughts and tips.
Repeat and Repeat
Always assume questions asked on-line or by mail will get repeated. For some, a new questionnaire can come days later. For others, DEED’s repetitive requests can come months later.
Requests for Information Will Keep Coming
Here is what happens. Claims for benefits begin by Applicants filing claims for benefits. Once submitted, Minnesota’s unemployment office will submit a similar questionnaire to the Applicant’s former employer. Assuming the former employer provides feedback, DEED will review the answers.
After DEED receives and reviews answers provided by the Employer, the unemployment office has the option to re-submit questions to the Applicant for further consideration or make a determination of coverage.
Unfortunately, Applicants are hardly provided with the details from the answers provided by their former employer. Instead, this will come down the road in yellow envelopes.
Nonetheless, the idea of keeping copies of questions and answers is to gage what was said in the past and to prevent contradiction.
Wrong Answers Given
Lots of Applicants believe they gave the wrong answer or feel like they contradicted themselves when asked to to respond to a request for information.
There are lots of reasons why Applicants feel this way. Here are just a few:
They were under stress,
Misunderstood questions,
Memory lapse, and
Lack of knowledge,
Sometimes, facts shared through this process can get clarified through the appeal process.
Appeal envelopes from the unemployment office are white with red letters. But, their yellow envelopes are even more significant.
Applicants are encouraged to watch their mailbox for yellow envelopes. Currently, Minnesota’s unemployment office (DEED) uses yellow envelopes to distribute evidence received or added to the ‘record’.
A lot of people contact this law office for the purpose of inquiring about when or how to receive documents from their employer. Parties (including the unemployment office) are required to follow strict rules about distributing exhibits. Exhibit is a fancy word for “evidence“. Basically, the process of submitting evidence needs to be fair.
Parties and applicants need to watch their mailbox for yellow envelopes.. To date, Minnesota’s unemployment office (DEED) uses yellow envelopes to distribute evidence received or added to the ‘record’.
When the unemployment office submits yellow envelopes, they generally contain exhibits. The process for exhibits and evidence is a constitutional issue. Thus, this is a big deal.
Lots of things are found within these described envelopes, including:
Other pieces of evidence submitted for consideration.
Finding a post on-line that discusses appeal envelopes is strange. But, the key here is knowing that it is coming and what it contains. From here, an Applicant can make decisions on their legal strategies and whether or not they should raise other issues.
EMACS is an online filing system for appeals to Minnesota’s Court of Appeals. Lawyers representing Applicants and Employers can appeal a claim using Minnesota’s online filing system, which you can find here.
Unemployment Tip # 015 – When an Applicant is unrepresented, an appeal can still get appealed the old-fashioned way. However, I predict this too will change. When in doubt, contact Minnesota’s Court of Appeals by phone or visit them in person at 25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155. Of course, connecting with an attorney makes sense too”
EMACS Filing Fees
The good news about an EMACS appeal for unemployment benefits is the fact fees are still waived for applicants. We know this because of Minn. Stat. 268.105, subdivision 6, which reads as follows:
Subd. 6.Representation; fees. (a) In any proceeding under subdivision 1 or 2, an applicant or employer may be represented by any authorized representative. Except for services provided by an attorney-at-law, no person may charge an applicant a fee of any kind for advising, assisting, or representing an applicant in a hearing or on reconsideration. (b) An applicant may not be charged fees, costs, or disbursements of any kind in a proceeding before an unemployment law judge, the Minnesota Court of Appeals, or the Supreme Court of Minnesota. (c) No attorney fees may be awarded against the department as a result of any proceedings under this section.
Thus, do not let this new system deter you from seeking help.
Because Minnesota has rules that support unemployment benefits for workers who quit their job, gathering evidence or documenting events or conversations can be extremely helpful. For example, e-mails, handbooks, personal improvement plans, corrective action plans, and notes.
That said, a lot of people are not able to gather or acquire documents prior to their job ending. Luckily, there are ways for unemployed workers to acquire evidence. In addition to subpoena power, an applicant in Minnesota can use Minnesota statute 181.961 to acquire a copy of a personnel file.
Unemployment Tip # 016 – Because Minnesota allows unemployment benefits for workers who quit their job, I like the idea of gathering evidence prior to quitting. For example, e-mails, handbooks, personal improvement plans, corrective action plans, and notes. Also, I like the idea of acquiring contact information from co-workers who might be able to assist down the road”
Exactly what is part of or excluded from a personnel file is really unknown until a copy is obtained. Usually, the types of documents within a “file” include:
Tax verification forms,
Job applications
Action Plans
Reprimands
Promotion Information
Even if a worker or employee believes they do not need a copy, asking for a copy is important. In terms of an unemployment appeal, demanding reasons why a work event wasn’t documented or included within a personnel file can offer probative value to an applicant’s claim for benefits.
One’s job search and unemployment go hand-in-hand. People who have or are collecting unemployment benefits can reduce risk by doing the following. Today’s tip is about asking applicants in Minnesota whether they are doing everything they can to protect their benefits from an audit.
This is my 15th unemployment tip in a running series I hope offers value to unemployed workers. Because I am very empathic to unemployed employees conducting their job searches and due to this process having an impact on benefits, I wanted to make 15 suggestions based on feedback from my Clients.
Very likely, you have never seen an outline quite like this, with the intent of reducing a DEED audit. Nonetheless, I hope these help:
Unemployment Tip # 015 –Record keeping should be a priority during a job search. Any person who has requested or received unemployment benefits is vulnerable to an audit. If you don’t have a written record, start by writing down everything you remember. I would rather see an Applicant try to recall a situation versus an auditor making assumptions that are untrue.
In no particular oder, here are my 15 bonus tips:
#15 Twitter and Your Job Search
After getting unemployment benefits, the next step is finding a job. Job searches today are different from this same process some 5-10 years ago. Twitter is a great resource for job opportunities. If you are hesitant with creating a public profile, create a dummy profile with the intent of using it to “find” jobs. When looking, consider hashtags like:
#job
#jobsearch
#careers
#jobs
#jobposts
#Hiring
#14 Visit Small Businesses
In my experience working with “small” businesses, finding employees and workers is unique. As a result, try visiting them in-person and asking if they have opportunities available. Do not be afraid of being dressed for the part you want. Of course, if the answer is no, do not leave empty-handed. Start collecting business cards from anybody and everybody.
**I am told from my unemployed clients that this tactic has produced the best results.
#13 Trick Big Business
As you already have found out, big businesses are different. Their job submission process is different. Sometimes, big companies make applicants answer questions in addition to submitting a resume.
Luckily, you are smart enough in your job search that you see value in creating a bogus profile and working through the submission process with the intent of acquiring their job questions such that you have time to think, write, and submit rock solid answers.
#12 Job Search with Facebook Dark Posts
Is there a company you are trying to get in front of, but are striking out? Think like an advertiser and connect with employees of a business who have hiring power. Next, send them to your LinkedIn account. How? By using a Dark Post. Most folks are skeptical that their job search process will improve by using a dark post. See for yourself how this might help:
#11 Cross Reference Job Posts
Searching for a job through an on-line website makes sense. But, as soon as you nail down a job that you want to seek, consider visiting the job / career link for the company you are interested in.
hen, determine if they have an additional job submission process. Also, try to determine if they’re posting is current or outdated. The punch line: a lot of good information can be found by cross referencing job boards. This in turn will improve your job search process and reduce your unemployment anxiety.
#10 Resume Updates
For some jobs, a resume is not needed. For those who depend on their resume, please keep it updated. If you need help updating your resume, check out a resume writing service like ResumePlant. No, I have no affiliation with them.
Of course, there are many others out there. For a couple hundred dollars, you can turn a year 2005 resume into an updated resume.
#09 College and Vocational Sites
Just because you haven’t been to school in decades doesn’t mean the career counselor or job board at the school you last attended cannot assist with your process. Now is the time to reestablish that connection.
#08 Third-Party Organizations
I dislike job recruiters and temp agencies. I see a ridiculous number of unemployment appeals as a result of temp agencies. If this is a necessity for your job search process, be extremely cautious.
#07 Local Newspaper
Forget the online version. Instead, buy a Sunday paper and check out their job section. Just because other unemployed folks have suggested the newspaper business is dead doesn’t mean you cannot find something useful in their job section. Also, do not forget the local town newspapers too.
#06 Global Economy
The job market has changed. If you have a skill that is transferable on-line, by all means, do not be afraid of telecommuting.
#05 Don’t Hand Out Your Resume
Handing out resumes at a job fair is old school. You can be better and smarter at your job search process. Handing out a resume should not feel like handing in an assignment in school. Use your time to acquire business cards and asking questions for the type of jobs “they” need help with.
Then, follow-up and tailor your resume to match their needs.
#04 Hand Out Business Cards is a Job Search
Buy hundreds of business cards. Add your contact information. Because privacy is a big deal, limit your business card to your name, phone number and an e-mail address. Next, have this on your purse at all times. Then, hand them out to anybody you know and see.
#03 Volunteer To Improve Your Job Search
For goodness sakes, get out of the house once in a while. Being unemployed is depressing. Helping others tends to lift our spirits. Even if you are limited to a few hours, consider giving more and expecting less. This strategy is very effective in the long-run.
#02 Visit the Elderly
I know this is a strange thing to add to one’s job search process. But, you know somebody who is older than you. I promise, they would rather be young and in your shoes. For me, nothing is more beneficial to my work ethic than knowing I will die someday. Thus, visit the elderly as a reminder that one’s self that they have something others do not: time.
Job Search Tip #01 – Track Your Process
Finally, track your job search activities. In my law practice, the folks who can produce
The closing argument for an unemployment appeal hearing is supposed to be a summary of the laws and facts in support of a directed conclusion.
Unfortunately, a lot of applicants appealing benefits believe their closing argument is an opportunity to spit new information. This is false.
Unemployment Tip # 014 – Facts, whether in the form of testimony, documents, or otherwise needs to be shared with the unemployment law judge BEFORE the closing argument. If an ULJ asks an applicant to give a closing argument and the applicant has more to say or offer, people involved in a hearing are encouraged to beg and plead for an opportunity to present more evidence.”
Closing Argument: Begging and Pleading
It is stressful representing oneself pro se, but when doing so, applicants are not literally begging and pleading for an opportunity to offer more information prior to their final statement or argument.
From a practical perspective, it is as easy as asking for another opportunity to give testimony share evidence.
On the other hand, this opportunity comes near the end of a hearing. A lot of people are not able to recognize an opportunity to advocate on their own behalf. Whether this is due to stress, anxiety, or otherwise, the key issue is knowing what to look for as the final bell.
Elements of a Good Closing Argument
In my experience, I believe a good or even exceptional closing statement does the following:
References legal cases to support a decision in the employee’s favor,
Summaries the facts, and
Is crystal clear on the appropriate conclusion.
In case it is not obvious, a closing argument does not need to be memorized. Certainly, having notes and practicing beforehand (like you did in your high school speech class) is a great way to iron out bugs. For those who do not prepare, this can make a good case look bad or a bad case look worse.
Thus, get everything important onto the record before the closing argument takes place.
The process of seeking and appealing for benefits is stressful. Applicants can reduce stress by rescheduling their appeal hearing for a time that works best for them. Far too many applicants forget they have rights. Applicants have a right to acquiring a subpoena.
Also, Applicants have rights regarding when and how their hearing will be scheduled. If meeting with a judge interferes with a family conflict, try to reschedule. If an Applicant works best after the lunch hour, reschedule. As simple as it might be, reduce unemployment stress by finding a court date and time that accommodates you being at your best.
Unemployment Tip # 013 – I believe applicants can reduce stress by rescheduling their appeal hearing for a time that works best for them. Far to many applicants forget they are allowed one opportunity to reschedule a phone call with a judge (assuming specific rules are followed). If meeting with a judge interferes with a family conflict, try to reschedule. If you work best after the lunch hour, reschedule. As simple as it might be, reduce unemployment stress by finding a court date and time that accommodates you being at your best.”
Unemployment Stress
Other times, stress is far more significant than finding a different court date and time.
The financial burden of getting denied unemployment benefits can be revived by having a plan. Even better, an Applicant will have a game plan and a back-up plan.
Generally, a game plan is their legal strategy of acquiring benefits. After all, a boss and employer are unique to the Applicant. Verbalizing the storyline that led to a discharge requires careful planning.
Usually, a storyline starts with the date of a discharge and works backwards. Sometimes, this comes as a surprise because people like the idea of starting from the beginning, as if their first day of work and why they were hired.
Starting from the beginning when talking with a unemployment law judge generally makes the conference more stressful than it needs to be. Thus, reduce unemployment stress by creating a game plan designed to show why and how one is eligible for benefits.
An online benefit account can really have important pieces of information. That said, there are still a lot of people who are afraid to look at their account online or do not trust that their data is secure.
I agree, these are issues to consider. On the other hand, accessing an unemployment account online can reduce anxiety, stress, and surprises.
Unemployment Tip # 012 –Even if you call yourself computer illiterate, accessing your unemployment account online can reduce anxiety, stress, and surprises.“
Thus, using the online system isn’t a necessity, but it helps identify legal issues such that the Applicant knows what to expect.
Conducting unemployment research for an unemployment appeal is way more complicated than conducting a Google search.
Sure, doing a quick search online makes sense as a starting point, but the law or legal issue you are researching is going to take a little more work.
Unemployment Tip # 011 –Every Applicant conducting DIY legal research for an unemployment claim or appeal should put down their phone and go directly to Minnesota’s exclusive law library or their nearest County Law Library .”
Unemployment Research Starting Point
Unfortunately, there isn’t a strong public website that helps people conduct free unemployment research. Ideally, applicants, employees, workers, etc. are using one of three sites:
WestLaw
LexisNexis
FastCase
Even more disappointing, these resources cost money to utilize. Generally, this is an advantage of seeking help from a lawyer. Even more significant, doing legal research on “legal issues” only works when folks know what it is that they are researching. Generally, errors of law or constitutional issues tend to be a little more challenging for people to see as an issue.
Nonetheless, Do It Yourself legal research is not impossible, provided people are able to access the three legal websites referenced above.
Researching Unemployment Legal Issues
Identifying a specific legal issue is an art based on experience and education. Sometimes, the unemployment office will suggest an issue like eligibility or employment misconduct. Sometimes, reading the letters submitted by DEED can be very helpful in the process of catching garden-variety legal issues. Other times, this has the opposite effect and sends folks on a wild goose chase.
Thus, knowing this can be important.
Why You Should Care About Unemployment Research
In case it is not obvious, doing research during the unemployment appeal process is important because unemployed workers can use other cases to support their claim. For example, imagine finding a published case that matches one’s circumstances. Well, this would be very helpful to one’s claim.
As an alternative, imagine finding a similar case that weakened one’s claim for benefits. Knowing this would be just as significant so one did not duplicate legal arguments that have failed in the past.
Thus, legal research for your upcoming unemployment appeal is important.
A reconsideration for unemployment benefits is not a sprint. Unfortunately, Applicants seeking a reconsideration are missing out on big opportunities when they fail to address two possible conclusions or results.
Unemployment Tip # 010 –Every reconsideration for unemployment benefits should address at least two outcomes: (i) a reversal or (ii) a subsequent phone conference with a judge.
Reconsideration: Reversal
When an employee or worker looses a phone appeal, utilizing the rules outlined under Minnesota statute 268.105 becomes very significant.
Unfortunately, a lot of applicants filing their own appeals fail to tell the unemployment judge what the desired outcome should be or suggest alternatives.
In other words, if the case should be reversed, tell the judge why and how by pinpointing legal issues, identify the correct rule of law, and share facts to support a reversal.
Or, if another phone conference might be a way to fix legal errors and issues, say that too.
Reconsideration: Another Phone Call
Another great way to seek the desired reversal is helping an unemployment law judge reach the conclusion that a second or subsequent phone conference is necessary. In other words, facts or evidence was missed and a second phone call would clarify an incomplete record.
Of course, a lot of workers and employees do not like this idea because they need their benefits immediately. I understand this need. As mentioned earlier which is worth repeating, a reconsideration for unemployment benefits is not a sprint.
This means slowing down. This means seeking a continuance if necessary. Also, this might require working through every piece of evidence at a snail’s pace.
Reconsideration: Types of Errors
Those seeking a reversal of a decision or a second phone call have greater success when their reconsideration:
Of course, there are many others and every situation is different. For these reasons, Minnesota rule 268.105 is a great start to the unemployment appeal process.
Getting back pay while unemployed seems like a great thing, right? In Minnesota, paid back can have unintended negative consequences, specifically, as it relates to unemployment benefits.
If your job ended and you get a check, start asking questions. If possible, never cash the check until you understand all of the ramifications. Of course, it is difficult to defend against an automatic direct deposit.
On the other hand, Applicants can inadvertently agree or trigger “back pay” ramifications described under Minnesota statute 268.035.
Other Laws Use the Term Back Pay Too
This term is used in dozens of other unemployment laws too. For example, the laws for wages and delayed payments under statute 268.085.
As you can see, what is or is not backpay can become extremely confusing.
Unemployment Tip # 009 –Even if a worker or employee is no longer receiving unemployment benefits, the receipt of back pay can result in an appeal, audit or an overpayment“
What Do you Call the Payment?
What to call money received after a job ends is confusing. The storyline why or how money is granted is going to be unique to that specific person.
The harm in calling money “back pay” is the impact it will have on past and future unemployment benefits. Applicants who cash a check without considering the terms can get burned.
For example, the terms attached to a settlement agreements, worker compensation payout, or gift can be revised, such that the documents do not trigger future problems. This means taking the negotiation process seriously.
You Need the Money Really Bad
Every worker should be thrilled with the opportunity of acquiring additional money from their former employer. That isn’t the issue. Instead, the issue is what to call the money received.
When an employer or Minnesota DEED call the money back pay, problems can ensue. In other words, preventing an overpayment or arguing why the receipt of money didn’t trigger back pay laws is worth exploring.
