Unemployment Benefits in the U.S.: How Much You Can Receive and Who Qualifies in Florida, California, and New Jersey

Unemployment benefits in the US provide temporary assistance to those who lose their job through no fault of their own.

For thousands of Latinos in Florida, California, and New Jersey, these benefits are a key source of income while they search for new employment.

Knowing the requirements and payment amounts in each state is vital to apply for assistance on time.

Unemployment benefits, also called reemployment assistance, are a financial lifeline for many.

Understanding how much you can receive and who qualifies is essential for the Hispanic community facing the uncertainty of unemployment.

Unemployment Benefits in Florida

Florida’s Reemployment Assistance provides weekly payments to those who lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

Weekly amount: between $32 and $275.

Duration: up to 12 weeks, depending on the state unemployment rate.

Main requirements:

Losing the job for reasons beyond your control.

Having earned at least $3,400 in the base period.

Being available for work and actively seeking employment.

Payments: by direct deposit or debit card.

Help line: 1-800-204-2418.

Unemployment Benefits in California

Unemployment Benefits in the US: How Much You Can Receive and Who Qualifies – PHOTO: Canva

In California, these benefits aim to support workers with reduced income or who have lost their job.

Weekly amount: between $40 and $450.

Calculation: based on income over the last 18 months.

Waiting time: about 3 weeks for the first payment.

Key requirements:

Having a Social Security Number and authorization to work.

Having earned sufficient income in the base period.

Being available, actively looking for work, and ready to accept employment.

Extra options: study or receive training while collecting benefits.

Contact phone in English and Spanish: 1-800-300-5616.

Unemployment Benefits in New Jersey

New Jersey’s program offers some of the highest payments in the nation.

Maximum weekly amount in 2025: $875.

Calculation: 60% of the average weekly wage up to that cap.

Requirements:

Having worked at least 20 weeks earning $303 per week.

Or having accumulated $15,200 during the base year.

Payments: determined based on wages reported by employers.

Contact numbers:

North New Jersey: 201-601-4100
Central: 732-761-2020
South: 856-507-2340

Advantages for the Latino Community

PHOTO: Canva

Unemployment benefits in the US mean more than just a weekly check.

For Hispanic families, they represent the ability to cover basic expenses such as rent, food, and transportation while looking for work.

In states like California, they even allow recipients to study or receive training, opening the door to new job opportunities.

What Authorities Say

“Applying for benefits is the best way to know if you qualify. Each case is different, but the support can make a difference while you find stable employment,” said CareerSource Florida.

What’s Next

States may adjust amounts and requirements depending on the economy.

Applicants must report their job searches weekly.

Staying informed about deadlines and rules helps avoid payment delays.