How to Get Unemployment Benefits if You're Self-Employed

Independent contractors are considered to be self-employed in the eyes of the state. They are required to pay income taxes just like every other working person. There are even some self-employed people that are able to secure unemployment benefits if they lose their jobs.

• Contact the state unemployment office in your area to determine if you are considered to be self-employed. There are some states that consider independent contractors similar to employees, but you would need to contact your local office to determine if this is practiced in your state.


• If your business was incorporated and you paid unemployment insurance you are indeed able to apply for unemployment benefits. Some states will allow you to apply online for benefits, but others may require you to come into the office.


• If you live in a region that has been affected by a disaster and it has caused you to be unable to work you should be able to receive disaster unemployment assistance. 


• If you started your own company after being laid off from another company it is possible that you can still draw your unemployment benefits from wages made through your previous employer. You would need to contact your local state employment office to determine if you are eligible.


• If you were in the military prior to starting your own business you may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits for ex-service members, which is a federal program that is administered by the state.