Collecting unemployment checks is an experience millions of Americans are going through for the first time.
It can seem confusing, even intimidating.
Before you do anything, here are some basics:
+ Maximum benefits are $405 per week.
+ You file in the state where you worked.
+ To be eligible, you must have worked at least two calendar quarters, one in which you earned at least $1,600 and one in which you earned at least $800.
Also, you don't go to a state job center to file for unemployment. You need to call on the telephone or go to the Labor Department's Web site.
"That process is rather quick," said out-of-work artist Susie Shopie.
And to find out what important documents you need to have handy when you do apply, watch the video to the left.
