Unemployment benefits - am I eligible???

[JoyOriente]

So here is my dilemma...I am a recent RN, ASN graduate awaiting my licensure number from the state of NJ...my current position as a certified medical assistant (PER DIEM) at a private practice in a local hospital will end once I receive my licensure because it is below my scope of practice...AND my employer is requesting my resignation so that they can post the job position...which is fair...I get it...but what do I do in the meantime while I am searching for a RN position w/ no experience mind you...does anyone have any ideas w/ this sort of thing??? There is no RN job available where I currently work...the budget is extremely tight and there is a hiring freeze...any advice or comments are appreciated...thanks!

[nursel56]

The criteria for getting unemployment benefits in my state is basically when you lose your job through no fault of your own, so I would imagine you would qualify, but the only way to find out is to ask your state Employment Development Department or the equivalent. Generally, it's better to be laid off than to resign, but again best to go to the source. Best wishes to you!

[drowningdaily]

When I became an RN my home health company could no longer use me as a home health aide. I applied for, and collected unemployment ( I live and worked in NJ). I think the issue is the letter. If you resign, I don't think you can collect. If you leave it on them to sever employment you should be able to get unemployment.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Resignation = ineligible for unemployment for 8 (or whatever the magic number is weeks)

Eligibility in NJ: http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/ui/aftrfile/aftrfile_index.html

Specifics about resigning: http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/ui/aftrfile/quit.html

Just because they terminate your position wouldn't necessarily make you qualified either.

With high unemployment, NJ is pretty strict about eligibility in the past few years

[JoyOriente]

Thank you!