Claimant External Guide - Florida Department of Economic ...



Claimant Guide to ConnectTable of Contents TOC \o "1-5" \h \z \u 1.Table of Contents PAGEREF _Toc355615649 \h 22.Introduction PAGEREF _Toc355615650 \h 72.1 Guide Instructions PAGEREF _Toc355615651 \h 72.2 CONNECT System Overview PAGEREF _Toc355615652 \h 82.2.1 What is Connect? PAGEREF _Toc355615653 \h 82.2.2 Where can I access Connect? PAGEREF _Toc355615654 \h 82.2.3 How does Connect help Claimants? PAGEREF _Toc355615655 \h 82.2.4 Who uses Connect? PAGEREF _Toc355615656 \h 93.Login to CONNECT PAGEREF _Toc355615657 \h 103.1 Access the Claimant Login page PAGEREF _Toc355615658 \h 103.2 Register for a Claimant Account PAGEREF _Toc355615659 \h 133.2.1 Existing Claimants PAGEREF _Toc355615660 \h 133.2.2 New Claimants PAGEREF _Toc355615661 \h 143.3 Resolve Password Issues PAGEREF _Toc355615662 \h 174.Navigate the Claimant Homepage PAGEREF _Toc355615663 \h 204.1 Claimant Homepage Features PAGEREF _Toc355615664 \h 204.2 Claimant Left Hand Menu PAGEREF _Toc355615665 \h 214.2.1 Apply for Standard Unemployment Benefits PAGEREF _Toc355615666 \h 214.2.2 View and Maintain Account Information PAGEREF _Toc355615667 \h 23Child Support Summary PAGEREF _Toc355615668 \h 23Contact Information PAGEREF _Toc355615669 \h 24Monetary and Issue Summary PAGEREF _Toc355615670 \h 25Payment History PAGEREF _Toc355615671 \h 27Payment Method Options PAGEREF _Toc355615672 \h 284.2.3 Request Benefit Payments PAGEREF _Toc355615673 \h 284.2.4 Determinations, pending issues, decision summaries PAGEREF _Toc355615674 \h 294.2.5 Explore Available Supports and Services PAGEREF _Toc355615675 \h 304.2.6 Frequently Asked Questions PAGEREF _Toc355615676 \h 304.2.7 Benefits Rights Information Booklet PAGEREF _Toc355615677 \h 314.2.8 Initial Skills Review PAGEREF _Toc355615678 \h 334.2.8 Workforce Registration PAGEREF _Toc355615679 \h 335.Apply for Benefits PAGEREF _Toc355615681 \h 355.1 Eligibility Requirements PAGEREF _Toc355615682 \h 35Sufficient wages in your base period PAGEREF _Toc355615683 \h 35Partially or totally unemployed through no fault of your own PAGEREF _Toc355615684 \h 35Able to work PAGEREF _Toc355615685 \h 35Available for work PAGEREF _Toc355615686 \h 35Actively seeking work PAGEREF _Toc355615687 \h 36Exceptions PAGEREF _Toc355615688 \h 36Skills Review PAGEREF _Toc355615689 \h 365.2 When to file for Reemployment Assistance benefits PAGEREF _Toc355615690 \h 365.3 Information Checklist PAGEREF _Toc355615691 \h 375.4 File an Initial Claim PAGEREF _Toc355615692 \h 385.4.1 Getting Started PAGEREF _Toc355615693 \h 385.4.2 Respond to Initial Questions PAGEREF _Toc355615694 \h 39Enter Work Search Details PAGEREF _Toc355615695 \h 45Report Income from another Source PAGEREF _Toc355615696 \h 47Other Deductible Income PAGEREF _Toc355615697 \h 485.4.3 Enter General Information PAGEREF _Toc355615698 \h 495.4.4 Enter Employment Information PAGEREF _Toc355615699 \h 52Enter Additional Employment PAGEREF _Toc355615700 \h 55Out of State Employment PAGEREF _Toc355615701 \h 56Military Service PAGEREF _Toc355615702 \h 57Federal Civilian Employment PAGEREF _Toc355615703 \h 57Self Employment PAGEREF _Toc355615704 \h 59Provide Eligibility Information PAGEREF _Toc355615705 \h 62Complete Professional Athlete Questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615706 \h 63Complete Pension or Retirement Questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615707 \h 64Complete Worker’s Compensation Questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615708 \h 65Pension, Retirement, or Annuity PAGEREF _Toc355615709 \h 65Severance or Other Separation Pay Questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615710 \h 66Complete Certifications PAGEREF _Toc355615711 \h 665.4.5 Review, Edit, and Submit Claim PAGEREF _Toc355615712 \h 685.4.6 Confirm Claim Submission PAGEREF _Toc355615713 \h 715.5 Reactivate a Claim PAGEREF _Toc355615714 \h 725.5.1 Reactivate a standard claim PAGEREF _Toc355615715 \h 725.5.2 Trade Readjustment Claimant PAGEREF _Toc355615716 \h 745.5.4 DUA Program in Effect PAGEREF _Toc355615717 \h 756.Request Benefit Payments PAGEREF _Toc355615718 \h 786.1 Claimant with a Return-to-Work Date PAGEREF _Toc355615719 \h 856.2 Claimant is a Union Member PAGEREF _Toc355615720 \h 856.3 Claimant in Approved Training Program PAGEREF _Toc355615721 \h 867.Check Claim Status PAGEREF _Toc355615820 \h 878.Maintain Claimant Inbox PAGEREF _Toc355615821 \h 899.1 View Action Items on Claimant Homepage PAGEREF _Toc355615822 \h 899.2 View Claimant Inbox PAGEREF _Toc355615823 \h 909.3 View Application History PAGEREF _Toc355615824 \h 929.4 View Correspondence PAGEREF _Toc355615825 \h 939.5 Respond to Fact Finding Questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615826 \h 949.6 Save a fact finding questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615827 \h 969.7 Open a partially completed fact finding questionnaire PAGEREF _Toc355615828 \h 969.File an Appeal PAGEREF _Toc355615829 \h 9810.1 Assign and maintain TPR PAGEREF _Toc355615830 \h 10210.2 Add Representation to an appeal PAGEREF _Toc355615831 \h 10310.3 Add Witnesses to an appeal PAGEREF _Toc355615832 \h 10410.4 Upload Appeal File(s) PAGEREF _Toc355615833 \h 10410.5 Create Monetary Reconsideration PAGEREF _Toc355615834 \h 10510.Manage Debt PAGEREF _Toc355615835 \h 11011.1 View Overpayment History PAGEREF _Toc355615836 \h 11011.2 Make a Payment PAGEREF _Toc355615837 \h 11011.3 View Overpayment Repayments PAGEREF _Toc355615838 \h 11111.4 Request or View Payment Plan PAGEREF _Toc355615839 \h 11211.Frequently Asked Questions PAGEREF _Toc355615840 \h 11411.1 When to contact the Call Center PAGEREF _Toc355615841 \h 11411.2Common Questions PAGEREF _Toc355615842 \h 114How are benefits paid? PAGEREF _Toc355615843 \h 114When are my benefits determined? PAGEREF _Toc355615844 \h 115How is Monetary Eligibility determined? PAGEREF _Toc355615845 \h 115How much will my Weekly Benefit Amount be? PAGEREF _Toc355615846 \h 115How long can I receive benefits? PAGEREF _Toc355615847 \h 115Where is the link for the Initial Skills Assessment? PAGEREF _Toc355615848 \h 116Why have I not received my debit card with payment? PAGEREF _Toc355615849 \h 116Was my claim was filed correctly? PAGEREF _Toc355615850 \h 116Were my weeks were filed correctly? PAGEREF _Toc355615851 \h 116I made a mistake on my claim – how can I fix it? PAGEREF _Toc355615852 \h 116What is the status of my pending issue? PAGEREF _Toc355615853 \h 116Why is the WIC screen not updated? PAGEREF _Toc355615854 \h 116How do I obtain a copy of my claim information that I entered into CONNECT? PAGEREF _Toc355615855 \h 116CONNECT will not allow me to advance to the next screen – how do I fix this? PAGEREF _Toc355615856 \h 117Why have I not received a response from the adjudicator? PAGEREF _Toc355615857 \h 117I received a voicemail from someone at DEO – who called, and why did they call me? PAGEREF _Toc355615858 \h 117I did not receive my direct deposit, but CONNECT indicates a payment was made PAGEREF _Toc355615859 \h 117Why am I unable to collect from my most recent employer? PAGEREF _Toc355615860 \h 117What if I worked in more than one state? PAGEREF _Toc355615861 \h 11711.3Other Questions PAGEREF _Toc355615862 \h 11812.Glossary PAGEREF _Toc355615863 \h 11913.Appendix PAGEREF _Toc355615864 \h 120IntroductionThis document is a reference for navigating the CONNECT system functions that you will use to register or activate an account, navigate the Claimant Homepage in Connect, apply for benefits, file appeals, view correspondence, respond to action items, and access information about payments, benefits, appeals, determinations, and correspondence related to your Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) (formerly Agency for Workforce Innovation) Claimant account.This is not a policy document. If you would like information on DEO or Reemployment Assistance (RA) policies, please refer to the DEO Claimant Handbook on the DEO Website.2.1 Guide InstructionsTopics listed in the table of contents can be jumped to by pressing 'Ctrl+Click' to follow the hyperlink to that topic.Helpful hints, tips, and reminders are indicated with a pointed hand symbol and text box.1Please note that this icon is where you will find helpful hints, tips, and reminders.You will find step-by-step instructions, and this red circle icon: indicates the step number on the screenshot. These are to help you follow along in the guide as you complete the steps yourself on the Connect Web site. Please note that the steps are listed before the image.Sometimes, links or special features of a screen are highlighted with a red rectangle to make it easier for you to find it on your screen as you follow along.2.2 CONNECT System OverviewThe purpose of the System Overview is to provide a high-level overview of the Connect system. It will cover applications and features of Connect, users of Connect, how to access Connect, and how Connect benefits you as a claimant.2.2.1 What is Connect?Connect is a Web-based claims management system that Claimants, employers, and third parties use to apply for benefits, access information about filed claims, and communicate with DEO Staff.2.2.2 Where can I access Connect?Connect is a Web based system, meaning that anyone with internet access can access Connect. You can access Connect by typing or copying the following link into a browser address bar: [insert hyperlink]. Connect can also be accessed from the DEO Web site [insert hyperlink].Users must register for a user identification (ID) and password in order to enter Connect. The steps to obtain a user ID and password are covered in Section 3, ‘Login to Connect.’2.2.3 How does Connect help Claimants?Connect provides easy, online access to all claim related information that you can access anywhere, at any time. Connect makes it easier and faster to apply for benefits, resolve issues, and provide information. It provides better processes, systems, and service for claimants, employers, third parties, and DEO Staff, and a stronger connection between UC and Workforce for quicker reemployment. You will use Connect to:Set up a password-protected Claimant AccountFile initial and continued claims View claim status and paymentsUpdate personal and payment option informationView issuesRespond to requests for InformationView correspondence from DEOFile appealsView overpayment balance and make paymentsAccess information about Reemployment Assistance2.2.4 Who uses Connect?Connect is a central system that is accessed by four types of users: Claimants, employers, third party agents, and DEO staff.Claimants – Claimants use CONNECT to apply for benefits, file an appeal, and view and send correspondenceEmployers – Employers use CONNECT to file appeals, and view and send correspondenceDEO Staff – DEO Staff use CONNECT to evaluate information, authorize payments, adjudicate issues, and maintain dataTPRs – If granted access by the claimant, TPRs use CONNECT to search, view information and act on behalf of the claimant during the appeal processTPAs – TPAs perform reemployment assistance benefit activities on behalf of an employer, and the employers provide the TPA access to specific informationOther State and Federal Agencies – Other state and federal agencies have contracts that outline the specific information that they can access in CONNECT Login to CONNECTThis section will provide information on logging into Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:Access the Claimant Login PageRegister for a Claimant Account as a new ClaimantActivate a Claimant Account as an existing ClaimantResolve password issues3.1 Access the Claimant Login pageThis section provides instructions on how to access the Claimant Login page in Connect, and documents the steps necessary to perform the following: Link to ConnectAdd Connect to ‘Favorites’Select Login TypeTo access the Claimant Login page, follow the steps listed below. Type or copy the Connect URL into your browser address bar: [insert link].1Add the Connect link to your favorites by selecting the ‘Star’ icon2Select ‘Add to favorites…’3Type ‘Connect Login Page’ into the ‘Name’ fieldSelect ‘Add’45 The link will take you to the ‘Select Login Type’ screenSelect ‘Claimant’67The Claimant Login Screen will populate83.2 Register for a Claimant AccountThis section provides instructions on how to register for you claimant account in Connect, and documents the steps necessary to perform the following: Identify if you are an Existing or New ClaimantIdentify required information to create your new claimant accountObtain your claimant ID and password3.2.1 Existing ClaimantsIf you have previously filed a claim through DEO, you are an Existing Claimant. Log in using your Social Security Number and 4-digit PIN in the Password field.13.2.2 New ClaimantsIf you have never filed a claim through DEO, you are a New Claimant. To set up a Claimant account and obtain a user ID and password, you must begin the process to apply for benefits.Follow the below steps to set up a Claimant account and obtain a user ID and password.Please note that this is the beginning of the ‘Apply for Benefits’ process of filing an initial claim. We will just review the screens that must be completed to set up the user ID and password. The entire ‘Apply for Benefits’ process of filing an initial claim will be covered in Topic 4.1, ‘Apply for Benefits – File an Initial Claim’On the Claimant Login Page, select the ‘Apply for Benefits’ link from the left hand menu or from the bottom of the page1You will land on the ‘Initial Questions’ screen23Scroll to the bottom of the screen and select “Start the Reemployment Assistance Application’4You will land on the “Reemployment Assistance Fraud’ screenReview the questions, scroll to the bottom of the page, and select ‘I acknowledge that I understand this statement and wish to continue to file my claim’Select ‘Next’65The ‘Information Checklist’ screen will populate7Review the information, scroll to the bottom of the page, and select ‘Next’8The ‘Privacy Act Statement’ page will populateReview the information, select ‘Yes’9Select the ‘Next’ button to continue 1110 1010The ‘Claimant Authentication’ page will populateEnter the required informationSelect ‘Yes’ to the statement ‘I have read and agree with the above’Select the ‘Next’ button to continue 1510 1210 1310The ‘Set Password’ screen will populate Select ‘Next’ to complete the process of setting up your login ID and password 1610 17103.3 Resolve Password IssuesThis section provides instructions on how to resolve password issues for a Claimant account in Connect, and documents the steps necessary to perform the following: Identify the ‘Forgot Password’ function in ConnectIdentify required information to reset a passwordReset your passwordTo resolve password issues in Connect, complete the following steps:Select ‘Apply for Benefits’ to enter account login informationEnter SSN into ‘Social Security Number’ field Select the ‘Forgot Password’ button 231The ‘Submit Personal Information’ screen will populateEnter personal information into required data fieldsSelect the ‘Next’ button 564The ‘Set Password’ screen will populateEnter required information into password data fields Select the ‘Next’ button to complete resetting your password987Navigate the Claimant HomepageThis section describes the necessary actions to navigate the Claimant Homepage in Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:Identify the Claimant Homepage featuresNavigate the Claimant Left Hand MenuUnderstand messages on the Claimant HomepageUnderstand general navigation tips4.1 Claimant Homepage FeaturesThis section provides an overview of the Claimant Homepage features and links in Connect, and documents the steps necessary to perform the following: Log out of your claimant account in ConnectView your action items in ConnectView your messages in ConnectIdentify links and functions on the Claimant Homepage The Claimant Homepage has several features to help you easily navigate the Connect system. We will review the important features and links that you will need to know in order to use Connect effectively.Please note that the links and features you see on the Claimant Homepage may vary based on your authentication status, your claim status, and other factors.The upper left-hand corner provides links to change a password, or log off ConnectThe ‘Important Items’ section highlights information that requires immediate action by youThe ‘Messages’ section displays correspondence from DEO Staff, status updates, and eventsThe left-hand navigation menu and ‘Reemployment Assistance Homepage – Available Navigation Options’ bottom section list the same navigation linksThe ‘Apply for Standard Unemployment Insurance Benefits’ link is selected to complete the process to apply for benefitsThe ‘FAQ’ link lists answers to frequently asked questions to assist ClaimantsThe ‘View and Maintain Account Information’ linkThe ‘Determination, Pending Issue and Decision’ link is selected to view status of claim issues and appealsThe ‘Read the Benefits Rights Information Booklet’ link is selected to review your rights46895743214.2 Claimant Left Hand MenuThis section provides instructions on how to navigate the Claimant left-hand menu in Connect, and documents the steps necessary to perform the following: Identify the left-hand menu links on the Claimant HomepageUnderstand sub-links and functions for each left-hand menus linkWe reviewed the links on the Claimant Homepage. Now, we will select each link to see the information you will find under each link. 4.2.1 Apply for Standard Unemployment BenefitsSelect ‘Apply for Standard Reemployment Assistance Benefits’ to begin the process of applying for benefits1The ‘Getting Started’ screen populates, and displays a list of FAQs that can be selected for more information before starting the applicationPlease note that to start the process of applying for benefits, you would select the ‘Start the Reemployment Assistance Application. After you have filed your initial claim, this left-hand menu link will disappear.24.2.2 View and Maintain Account InformationSelect ‘View and Maintain Account Information’ to view child support information, contact information, view monetary and issue information, and payment history3Child Support SummarySelect ‘Child Support Summary’ under the View and Maintain Account Information link on the left hand menu to view Child Support information Select ‘Previous’ to return to the previous screen12Contact InformationSelect ‘Contact Information’ under the View and Maintain Account Information link on the left hand menu to View and Maintain contact information Select ‘Edit’ to update information21Enter the updated residential addressCheck the box if mailing address is the same as residential addressIf mailing address is different than residential address, enter the updated mailing addressEnter telephone numbers for home, cell, and other4 6 53Select ‘Electronic’ or ‘US Mail’ to indicate preferred method of correspondenceIf electronic, enter your email addressIndicate preferred language from the drop down menu, or select from the secondary drop down menu if your preferred language is not listed 7Select ‘Submit’ to complete the process of updating contact information 910 8Monetary and Issue SummarySelect ‘Monetary and Issue Summary’ from the left hand menuRead the Determinations, Pending Issues and Decision Summary information and select the links for more information 3 2Scroll down to view the information in the Claims View or switch to Appeals View by choosing that option 3 2 1View Claim Information for Claim ID and dateView Monetary DeterminationsSelect Monetary Determinations status hyperlink to see more information about the determinationView Monetary Pending IssuesView Monetary Issue Determinations and DecisionsView Eligibility IssuesView Eligibility Pending IssuesSelect Issue ID to view Issue Details1110 9 8 7 6 5 4View Eligibility Determinations and DecisionsSelect ‘Previous’ to return to previous screen 13 12Payment HistorySelect ‘Payment History’ from the left hand menu to view Payment History details 1View Claim InformationSelect link to select prior claim historiesView Potential Benefits by ProgramView Payment Request Status 3 5 4 2Payment Method OptionsSelect ‘Payment Method Options’ from the left hand menu 14.2.3 Request Benefit PaymentsSelect the ‘Request Benefit Payment’ link to request benefit paymentsPlease note that the ‘Request Benefit Payment’ link will only appear after you have successfully completed the process of filing your initial claim, and if you have eligible weeks to request benefit payments.922351580777 14.2.4 Determinations, pending issues, decision summariesSelect ‘Determinations, Pending Issues, and Decision Summary’ to view claim or appeal details including eligibility and monetary issues and determinations 14.2.5 Explore Available Supports and ServicesSelect ‘Explore Available Supports and Services’ to access reemployment assistance resources 1The Reemployment Assistance Center section of the DEO Web site will populate 24.2.6 Frequently Asked QuestionsSelect ‘FAQs’ to review frequently asked questions from other claimants about reemployment assistance 1The Frequently Asked Questions section of the DEO Web site will populate 24.2.7 Benefits Rights Information BookletSelect ‘Read the Benefits Rights Information Booklet’ link to review your reemployment assistance rights 1A PDF version of the Benefits Rights Information Booklet will populate in a separate tab 24.2.8 Initial Skills ReviewSelect ‘Initial Skills Review’ to determine which modules have been completed and to access the link to complete the required initial skills review in order to receive reemployment assistance 14.2.8 Workforce RegistrationSelect ‘Workforce Registration’ to complete required workforce registration 1Apply for BenefitsThis section describes the necessary actions to apply for benefits in Connect. After completing this section, you will have the ability to:Explain eligibility requirementsUnderstand the information required to file a claimFile an initial claimReactivate a current claimRequest benefit paymentsFile an appealCheck your claim statusView payment information5.1 Eligibility RequirementsTo determine if you meet the Eligibility Requirements to receive Reemployment Assistance benefits in Florida, please review the below information.Sufficient wages in your base periodTo establish a claim, you must meet the following requirements:Have been paid wage at least 1-1/2 times the wages in the quarter having the highest earningsHave at least $3,400 total wages in the base periodPartially or totally unemployed through no fault of your ownThe reason for separation from employment may impact your eligibility for benefits, even with sufficient wages in the base periodAble to workYou must be able to work. You must report any condition or circumstance that limits you from performing work, accepting work, or looking for work.Available for workYou must be ready and willing to accept work in your usual occupation or any other suitable employment. You must advise DEO if you are attending or planning to attend school full or part time.Actively seeking workYou are required to contact on a weekly basis either five (5) or three (3) potential employers depending on the population of your residential county, and provide this information on the internet for each week you claim benefits. When you file your claim for benefits, you will be advised of how many employer contacts you are required to make. If you are not able to make a minimum of either five (5) or three (3) employer contacts in a week, the requirement may be satisfied by meeting with a representative at the local One Stop Career Center for reemployment services.A quick and efficient way to apply for work is to use the Employ Florida Marketplace, the state’s online job matching system where you can search and apply for thousands of job openings. ExceptionsIf you are a union member who gets work only through a union hiring hall, you must certify that you are in good standing with your union and make a sustained effort to contact your union. You will be required to submit either five (5) or three (3) union visits or contacts based on the population of your residential county for each week you are requesting benefits. When you file your claim for benefits, you will be instructed on the number of union contacts you are required to make.If you have a recall date with your regular employer within 8 weeks of your last day of work, or you have a promise of new work within 6 weeks of your last day of work, you will be required either to certify that your promised return to work date has not changed or to provide corrected information each time you request benefit payments.Skills ReviewYou must complete an initial online skills review when filing a new claim in order to receive benefits. The results of the review will be used by your local One Stop Career Center to assist in your job search efforts.5.2 When to file for Reemployment Assistance benefitsYou must wait until you are unemployed, which means you should file during the first calendar week (Sunday through Saturday) that you:Do not expect to work fulltimeDo not expect to earn more than $274 gross (even if you have not yet received the money)This online reemployment assistance claim application is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.You can register for work through at any time, even if you are fully employed.5.3 Information ChecklistInformation that you should have available before beginning the process of applying for benefits:Your social security number (SSN)Secondary identification to include any of the following:Driver’s license issues by a state, possession of the United States, or a Canadian government authority, provided it contains a photograph or identifying information such as name, date of birth, height, sex, and addressDocumentation issued by a federal, state, or local government agency that contains a photograph or identifying information such as name, date of birth, sex, height, and addressSchool identification (ID) card with photographUnited States (U.S.) military ID card, dependent’s ID card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner cardNative American tribal documentU.S. Passport (unexpired or expired), orCertificate of U.S. Citizenship or Certificate of NaturalizationIf you are not a citizen of the United States, your alien registration numberYour residential addressYour mailing addressYour telephone numberYour birth dateYour employment history (most recent 18 months) which includes:The names of all your employersEmployer addressesEmployer phone numbersReasons for separation from your employersEmployment start and end datesRecall datesIf you were in the military, you will need information from your DD-214. Member 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 may be used (not mandatory to apply)If you were a federal employee you will need information from your SF 8 or SF 50 (not mandatory to apply)Your union name and local number (if you are a member of union)Your e-mail address if you want electronic communication (optional) If you want to use direct deposit, you will need your bank account number and bank routing number5.4 File an Initial ClaimThis section provides instructions on how to file a claim in Connect, and documents the steps necessary to perform the following: Complete initial questionsEnter general informationEnter employment informationReview, edit, and submit claimTo file a claim in Connect, follow the below steps:5.4.1 Getting StartedTo start, select ‘Apply for Standard Unemployment Insurance Benefits’ from the Claimant Homepage in Connect1Read through the questions/statements on Getting Started screenClick on a questions/statement to view more detailed information on the topic in a separate windowClick ‘Start the Reemployment Assistance Application’ to begin RA processPlease note that the system times out after 5 minutes of inactivity. Each time you select ‘Next,’ the system saves the information you entered. If the system times out, you can access your incomplete claim by logging into your account and viewing the ‘Action Items’ on the You Homepage.3452082701424305264731517018025.4.2 Respond to Initial QuestionsRead through the RA fraud information until you reach the end of the page1Check the box to acknowledge that the statement is understoodPlease note that a red asterisk * designates a required field. You must make a selection or enter a response for fields marked with a red asterisk in order to continue with your application.Select ‘Next’ to continue23Read through the information checklist to know what documents are necessary to apply for reemployment assistanceSelect ‘Next’-81221-400050431623002311405Read the Privacy Act Statement Click ‘Yes’ if you agree and ‘No’ if you disagree Select ‘Next’687Enter required information Social Security NumberBirth DateGenderFirst NameLast NameEnter selection if you worked under a different name:Select ‘Yes’ if you worked by another name Select ‘No’ if you have not used another name Enter if you have a valid Driver’s License:Select ‘Yes’ if you have a valid license, then enter the Driver’s License Number and select issuing state from drop down, finally click ‘Next’ to continueSelect ‘No’ if you do not have a valid Driver’s license Indicate if you have a state identification card:Select ‘Yes’ if you have a valid state identification card, then enter the Identification Card Number and select issuing state from drop down, finally click ‘Next’ to continueSelect ‘No’ if you do not have a valid state identification cardIf you do not have a driver’s license or state ID you will be required to provide information regarding another form of identification. ‘Next’ to continue9 13 10 12 11Respond to the two questions on the Notification Screen by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ Select ‘Next’ 15 1428651201011806If a Federal disaster has been declared for Florida the Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) screen below will display. If you have been affected by that disaster, answer ‘Yes’ and continue with your claim. If you do not qualify for regular unemployment, you will be instructed to file a DUA claim through your Portal. Please select the link to review the ‘Disaster Unemployment Assistance’ section for more information. Use the ‘Back’ button in the upper left-hand corner of the document to return to this section.Indicate if you are affected by a disasterSelect ‘Next’ 16 17Check boxes to indicate ALL types of employment you had after displayed date 3182951429895Please note that you can add additional employment later on in the application process. Please select the link to review the ‘Add Additional Employment’ section for more information. Use the ‘Back’ button in the upper left-hand corner of the document to return to this section.Fill out residential address fieldsSelect ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to indicate whether you have applied for unemployment benefits in another state since indicated dateSelect ‘Yes’ if you are filing from Florida1312545452755Enter ‘No’ if you are filing from another state, select ‘Next,’ and complete the ‘Out of State Employment’ screen. Select the link for more information, and Use the ‘Back’ button in the upper left-hand corner of the document to return to this section.Select ‘Next’ 20 21 22 19 18Select correct address on Address Validation screen Select ‘Next’ to continue 23 245.4.3 Enter Contact InformationReview contact information and residential addressCheck the box under mailing address if it is the same as your residential address 2 1Enter at least one phone number under telephone numbersChoose your preferred type of correspondenceSelect ‘Electronic’ if you wishes to receive notifications via e-mail and enter your e-mail address Select ‘US Mail’Select your preferred language from drop-down box thenSelect ‘Next’ to continue to Personal Information Screen 6 5 4 3Select your ethnic heritage from drop-down box next to question 1Select your race from drop-down box next to question 2Select your highest level of education completed from drop-down box next to question 3Indicate whether or not you have a disability in question 4Indicate whether or not you are a U.S. citizen in question 5 Select ‘Next’ to continue 11 10 12 9 8 7Enter your job title for your most recent employer in the ‘Job Title’ field and select ‘Search’ to locate the most accurate description of your occupationSelect ‘Search’ 14 13Select ‘Display All’ if an accurate description of your occupation is not among the results belowOnce the most accurate description of your occupation is located, select the button associated with the Job TitleSelect ‘Next’ 17 16 15Select whether or not you want federal taxes withheld from reemployment assistance Please note that your tax withholding choice may be changed by accessing the Claimant Homepage and updating your claim.Select ‘Next’ 19 18Select whether you would like benefits paid to:A reemployment assistance debit card By direct deposit to a bank account Enter direct deposit information for direct paymentsSelect your bank account typeEnter Routing Transit NumberClick ‘Verify’ to verify your bank information Enter and re-enter Bank Account Number in fields 4 and 5Click ‘Next’ to continue 26 25 24 23 22 21 205.4.4 Enter Employment InformationReview information in the Employment Summary tableIf an employer is displayed, click ‘Update’ to provide your employer detailsIf no employer is displayed, select ‘Update’ to be taken to the Florida Employer Search Screen Select ‘Next’ 2 4 3 1Enter your most recent employer in the ‘Employer Name’ fieldSelect ‘Search’ Once the most accurate description of your employer is located, select the button associated with the employer, and select ‘Next’Review the list of employers that appears after ‘Search’ is clicked and select your employer using the radio button then click ‘Next’ to continue 8 5 6 7Review Detailed Employment Information at the top of the new pageEnter physical location where your work was performed in first 6 fields if different from displayed Detailed Employment InformationEnter total period of employment with the employer by inputting ‘Start Date’ and ‘End Date’Select whether you had multiple periods of new employment with employer since date listed in question 1Indicate if you are considered working on-call for the employer by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’Indicate if you worked full time for employer by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’Indicate if you were an officer of a corporation by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’Indicate if you were a sole proprietor, partner, or worked for a family member who operated a sole proprietorship or partnership by selecting ‘ Yes’ or ‘No’Indicate if you worked for a private company and also provided services to a school or other educational institution by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ 12 10 13 11Read through list of reasons for separation from employer then, using the radio buttons, select one reason that explains your status with employer Click ‘Next’ to continue to the Return to Work Information screen 19 18Select whether or not you are scheduled to return to work for employerSelect whether or not you will receive vacation or holiday pay for any of the periods he/she is unemployedClick ‘Next’ to return to Employment Summary Screen 22 20 21Verify that your employer status is now marked ‘Complete’ 23Enter Additional EmploymentSelect additional employment type from drop down list Click ‘Add’ to continue 1 2Out of State EmploymentEnter out-of-state employer name Input employer’s legal address and phone number 2 1Enter address of location where your work was performed if different from legal employer addressEnter employment start date and end dateRespond to questions 1-6Select reason for separation from employer and click ‘Next’ to continueComplete Return to Work Information screen Click ‘Next’ to return to Employment Summary – Non Florida Employment should now be visibleMilitary ServiceSelect your branch of serviceEnter military service start dateEnter military service end dateIndicate if you have applied for or are receiving Veteran’s Administration subsistence allowance for vocational rehabilitation trainingIndicate if you are receiving Veteran’s Administration war orphan or widow’s education assistanceSelect ‘Next’ to return to Employment Summary screen Confirm Military Service is visible in the tablePlease note that DD214 form will need to be uploaded at the end of the application process for Military and Federal Employment, and forms SF50 and SF8 for Military/Federal Civilian. 1 6 7Federal Civilian EmploymentSelect ‘Federal Civilian’ employment type from drop down list Click ‘Add’ to continue 1 2Select Department/AgencyIf appropriate Department/Agency is not listed, select the check box to manually enter Department/Agency nameSelect ‘Next’ to continue to Detailed Federal Civilian Employment information page 4 5 3Enter physical location where you performed work in fields 1-7Enter City, State, Overseas Location and Employer Phone Number for your last Duty Station.Indicate if you worked on-call and respond to question 1Indicate if you worked full time for employer and respond to question 2Indicate if you were a school employee and respond to question 3Enter employment start date and end dateIndicate if you had multiple periods of employment with same employer since listed dateEnter your job titleSelect the radio button that explains the reason for separation from employer 12 11 10 9 8 13 7 6 Click ‘Next’ to return to Employment Summary screen – Federal Civilian Service should now be visible in the tableSelf Employment Enter the name of your business, the business where you worked, or your name in the ‘Business Name’ fieldEnter business address and employer phone number in ‘Business Address’ sectionEnter the physical location where work was performed if different from business addressInput start date and end date of your self-employment in respective fieldsIndicate if you had multiple periods of employment since listed date by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’If ‘Yes’ is selected proceed to respond to additional questionsIf ‘No’ is selected proceed to question 2Indicate if you owned the business and select response in question 2If ‘Yes’ is selected continue to question 3If ‘No’ is selected indicate whether you received a 1099 for self-employment workIndicate if you are still working in listed self-employment and select appropriate response in question 3If ‘Yes’ is selected click ‘Next’ to continueIf ‘No’ is selected select the reason why you are no longer working, then click ‘Next’ to continue 7Verify that Self-Employment information now appears in table 8Provide Eligibility InformationIndicate if you are enrolled in or attending school and select response in question 1Indicate if you have refused or turned down any specific job since becoming unemployed and select response in question 2Indicate if you have been referred to a job by a WORK Source One-Stop Career Center that he/she refused/failed to accept since becoming unemployed and select response in question 3Indicate if you performed any services as a professional athlete for an employer since date listed and select response in question 4Indicate if you have applied for or is receiving payments from a pension fund, annuity fund, or retirement account other than Social Security and select response in question 5Indicate if you have received Worker’s Compensation classified as either Temporary Total or Permanent TotalIf Temporary Total Worker’s Compensation is being paid to you select ‘Yes’ for question 6aIf Permanent Total Worker’s Compensation is being paid to you select ‘Yes’ for question 6bIf no Worker’s Compensation is being paid to you select ‘No’ for questions 6a and 6bIndicate if you have received severance pay, wages in lieu of notice, or any other separation payments in connection with separation from employment that occurred after listed date and select best response to question 7Indicate if you are seeking only part-time work and select best response to question 8Indicate if you are in good standing of a labor union which requires that you seek work through their hiring callIf ‘Yes’ is selected enter Union Name in question 9a, Hiring Hall number in question 9b and phone number in question 9c then proceed to question 10If ‘ No’ is selected proceed to question 10Indicate if you have accepted a job offer with a new employerIf ‘Yes’ is selected, enter the date you will begin working in field 10a then click ‘Next to continueIf ‘No’ is selected click ‘Next’ to continue 10Complete Professional Athlete QuestionnaireCheck the box next to the professional sporting team you worked forIndicate whether or not you have reasonable assurance that you will return to work for listed employerClick ‘Next’ to continue to Professional Athlete/Coach – Reasonable Assurance – Claimant Questionnaire Employment Information Fact-Finding screenComplete all information on Fact-Finding screen and press ‘Submit’ to continue 3Complete Pension or Retirement QuestionnaireCheck the box next to the employer who is paying for your pension, annuity fund, or retirement claim (Note: If employer is not listed or you worked for employer prior to date listed, check the final box).Select payment method employer uses from drop-downClick ‘Next’ to continue to Remuneration-Pension-Claimant Fact-Finding screen 1 3 2Complete all information on Fact-Finding screen and press ‘Submit’ to continueComplete Worker’s Compensation QuestionnaireFirst, we will review all of the steps in this lesson and the instructor will perform a demonstration in Connect. This lesson includes the following steps:Check the box next to the employer who is paying for your worker’s compensation Click ‘Next’ to continue to Other Pay and Benefits – Workers Compensation – Claimant Questionnaire Fact-Finding screen 2Complete all information on Fact-Finding screen and press ‘Submit’ to continuePension, Retirement, or AnnuityCheck the box next to the employer who is paying for your pension, annuity fund, or retirement claim Select payment method from drop down Click ‘Next’ to continue to Remuneration-Pension-Claimant Fact-Finding screen 1 3 2Complete all information on Fact-Finding screen and press ‘Submit’ to continue to Summary screenSeverance or Other Separation Pay QuestionnaireCheck the box next to the employer who is paying for your worker’s compensation Click ‘Next’ to continue to Remuneration – Other – Claimant Questionnaire Fact-Finding screen 2Compete all information on Fact-Finding screen and press ‘Submit’ to continue5.4.5 Complete CertificationsPlease note the information displayed is based on the claimant situation and all requirements will not apply to each claimant.Read the Initial Skills Review requirement and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statementRead the Workforce Registration requirement and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statementRead the One-Stop Career Center requirement and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statementRead the Requesting Benefits Payments requirement and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statement 4 1 2 3 4Read the Reporting Income requirement and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statementRead the Work Search Requirements and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statementRead the Benefit Rights Information requirement and check the ‘I agree’ box if you agree with the statementSelect ‘Next’ to continue to the Review, Edit, and Confirm Claim screen 5 6 7 85.4.6 Review, Edit, and Submit ClaimSelect ‘I acknowledge that I have read and understand’ statementPlease note that you will review your application prior to submitting it, and will be able to make any necessary edits to the information. Select to review and edit contents, or scroll down the page 2 1In the ‘Identify Verification’ section, select the verification statement and enter your SSNSelect ‘Submit the Reemployment Assistance Benefits Application’ 3 45.4.7 Confirm Claim SubmissionReview confirmation screen to verify that Unemployment Benefit claim has been submittedReview Preliminary Benefits Estimate.Please note that the Preliminary Benefits Estimate amount may not be available immediately as additional wage information may be required.Select ‘Next’ to continue to Claim Submission Confirmation page 3Review the informationSelect ‘Login’ to log back into your claimant accountPlease note that once you log back in to your account, you will be able confirm that your application was accepted and you will be advised of any actions you need may need to take. 5 45.5 Reactivate a ClaimYou may reactivate a claim that has been inactivated due to a time lapse. For example, you may have stopped reporting, had a break in you claim, or returned to work. A claim is set up for a one year time period. A claim is inactivated after 25 days without requesting benefits and reporting requirements.5.5.1 Reactivate a standard claimSelect ‘Reopen’ from the Claimant Homepage 1Acknowledge the Reemployment Assistance Fraud Statement 2Review Address and Contact information, tax withholding information and direct deposit screensRespond to questions on the Claimant Question screen Select ‘Next’ 4 5CONNECT queries the new hire database and retrieves any new hire information with a start date after the last Application Effective DateIf an employer has reported you as a ‘new hire’ or if you indicate that you had additional work since the effective date of the most recent claim, the Employment List screen will be displayedIf no new employment is indicated, you will skip to Step 11 to update eligibility informationReview the Employer List ScreenSelect ‘Next’ 7 8Review your Employment SummarySelect ‘Update’ to add an additional employer or, if list is complete and accurate, select ‘All my employment is listed’ Select ‘Next’ to continue 10 9 115.5.2 Trade Readjustment (TRA) ClaimantA TRA Claimant is monetarily eligible to receive benefits, but has exhausted available funds, and must file a new claim. If you are TRA eligible, you will be provided a link to TRA application as an Action Item on the Claimant Homepage. You must complete application. You should continue to request standard benefits until you exhaust funds. Acknowledge the Reemployment Assistance Fraud StatementReview Address and Contact information, tax withholding information and direct deposit screensAllow Connect system to determine if your claimant type is Trade Readjustment Allowance (TRA)If yes, an issue of TRA Re-determination/Additional TRA Redetermination/ Remedial TRA Redetermination will be created and the TRA application will immediately be shown to you. Complete application then proceedIf no, screen will not displayRespond to questions on the Claimant Question screenAllow Connect to query the new hire database and retrieve any new hire information with a start date after the last Application Effective DateReview the Employer List ScreenSelect ‘Next’ 6 7Review your Employment SummarySelect ‘Update’ to add an additional employer or, if list is complete and accurate, select ‘All my employment is listed’ Select ‘Next’ to continue 8 9 105.5.4 DUA Program in EffectAcknowledge the Reemployment Assistance Fraud StatementReview Address and Contact information, tax withholding information and direct deposit screensSystem will determine if your claimant type is DUASystem will create a new issue - Disaster Unemployment Assistance/Reactivation and will immediately request that you complete a Fact Finding questionnaire If no, screen will not displaySystem will determine if DUA program is currently in effectIf yes, an alternate flow will begin If no, system will display Claimant Question screenRespond to questions on Claimant Question screenAllow Connect to query the new hire database and retrieve any new hire information with a start date after the last Application Effective DateReview the Employer List ScreenSelect ‘Next’ 8 9Review you Employment SummarySelect ‘Add more employment’ to add an additional employer or, if list is complete and accurate, select ‘All my employment is listed’ Select ‘Next’ to continue 10 11 125.6 Request Benefit PaymentsThis section describes the necessary actions to request benefit payments in Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:Understand when to request benefitsAccess the Request Benefits ScreenIdentify eligible weeksRequest benefits for an eligible weekTo request benefit payments, follow the below steps:Select ‘Request Benefit Payments’ from the Claimant Home left-hand menuJust a reminder that the ‘Request Benefit Payment’ link will only appear after you have successfully completed the process of filing your initial claim, and if you have eligible weeks to request benefit payments.13436601246809 1 Read through the Reemployment Assistance Fraud Acknowledgement screen then check the acknowledgement box and select ‘Next’ to continue 2Review current payment methodVerify addressIf you need to update, select ‘Update’ button at bottom of screenUpdate address, telephone numbers, or correspondence preferences then press ‘Submit’ Select ‘Confirm’ to continue 5Continue to Initial Questions screenPlease note that questions and screens displayed are based on your specific situation and the screens below may not be displayed to all claimants.Note the week the initial questions are for at the top of the screenSelect a response to ‘Did you look for work or make an in-person contact at a One-Stop Career Center?’Select a response to ‘Were you able and available to work if work had been offered?’Select a response to ‘Did you refuse any offer of work or referral of work?’Select a response to ‘Did you work or earn any money?’Select a response to ‘Did you receive, or apply for income from any other sources that you have not previously reported to us?’Click ‘Next’ to continue 13Review the work search informationSelect ‘I have read and agree to the above information’Select ‘Next’ to continue 15 16Select an entry by clicking the circle next to it and press ‘Edit’ to make updates or ‘Remove’ to deleteAdd an additional work search log by clicking ‘Add’Click ‘Submit’ once all job contacts for the week have been entered 19 18Review answers to initial questions on Summary ScreenClick ‘Modify’ to edit responses to any initial questionsClick ‘Submit’ once finished to proceed to the summary screen 21 22Acknowledge that all provided information is true by checking the box next to the statement Click ‘Submit’ to continue to Payment Request Confirmation PageSelect ‘Request Benefit Payments’ to claim any listed eligible weeksSelect ‘Home Page’ to return to Claimant Home 25 265.6.1 Enter Work Search DetailsRead through Work Search Requirements screen, check the box to acknowledge statement Select ‘Next’ to continue 1 2Enter Work Search Details and click ‘Next’ to continue to Work Search Log screen 3Enter Work Search contacts by selecting ‘Edit’ to add information, or remove contacts by selecting the radio button next to the contact and select ‘Remove’Select ‘Submit’ to continue to Collect Other Income From Another Source screen 5 45.6.2 Report Income from another SourceSelect the other type of income you received by checking the appropriate box(es) and click ‘Next’ to continue1869440414351If you select ‘Pension, Retirement, or Annuity,’ select ‘Next,’ and complete the ‘Pension, Retirement, or Annuity’ screen. Select the link for more information, and Use the ‘Back’ button in the upper left-hand corner of the document to return to this section.1269558489364If you select ‘Severance Pay or Separation,’ select ‘Next,’ and complete the ‘Severance Pay or Separation’ screen. Select the link for more information, and Use the ‘Back’ button in the upper left-hand corner of the document to return to this section.5225857477299If you select ‘Workers Compensation,’ select ‘Next,’ and complete the ‘Workers Compensation’ screen. Select the link for more information, and Use the ‘Back’ button in the upper left-hand corner of the document to return to this section. 15.6.3 Other Deductible IncomeReview the list of employers on screenSelect the box(es) next to the employer(s) associated with other income source(s), if listedEnter the other source of income employer name in text box, if not listedConfirm that you have selected or entered all employers that contributed to his/her income source by checking boxClick ‘Next’ to continue to summary screen 35.6.4 Claimant with a Return-to-Work DateRespond first initial question ‘Are you still scheduled to start work with your employer on x date?’Answer next question, ‘Were you able and available to work if work had been offered?’Select responses to questions 2-4 Click ‘Next’ to continue to Request for Benefit Payment submission screen 45.6.5 Claimant is a Union MemberRespond first initial question ‘Are you still in good standing with your union and did Claimant contact your hiring hall as instructed by this department?’Answer next question, ‘Were you able and available to work if work had been offered?’Select responses to questions 2-4Click ‘Next’ to continue to Request for Benefit Payment submission screen 45.6.6 Claimant in Approved Training ProgramRespond first initial question ‘Did you attend your approved school or training as scheduled?’ Select responses to questions 2 and 3 and click ‘Next’ 2Check Claim StatusThis section describes the necessary actions to check the status of a claim in Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:Identify where to access a submitted claimUnderstand when a claim status is updated in ConnectIdentify available information for a claimTo check the status of a claim, follow the below steps:Select ‘Login’ at the bottom of the ‘Claim Submitted’ screen to access the Claimant Homepage 1Select ‘Determination, Pending Issue and Decision Summary’ left-hand menu option to view claim 2 3Maintain Claimant InboxThis section describes the necessary actions to maintain your inbox in Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:View Action ItemsSearch for CorrespondenceView CorrespondenceSelect Fact Finding Respond to Fact FindingIn order to access your inbox, two conditions must be met:You have successfully established a benefit claimYou have successfully logged in to the System and have been authenticated7.1 View Action Items on Claimant HomepageThis topic will cover the steps necessary to view your action items and due dates. After completing this lesson, you will have the ability to:View action itemsIdentify action item due datesUnderstand how to complete action itemsTo view action items, complete the following steps:From the Homepage, view the ‘Important Items that Need Your Attention’ sectionSelect links to view the itemsView the ‘Messages’ sections for other items that may require your attention 3 2 17.2 View Claimant InboxSelect Claimant Inbox from a link on the Claimant Home Page. 1System displays the Claimant Inbox screenSystem will display initially any Action Items requiring the your immediate attentionThe System displays the detail screen associated with the Fact Finding Action ItemCompletes the Fact Finding Action ItemThe System Removes the Action Item from the Action Item List 2The related correspondence is still available, just no longer marked as an Action Item 47.3 View Application HistorySelect Claimant Inbox from a link on the Claimant Home Page 1Select ‘Click here to view all reemployment assistance applications’ to view application history 2The System displays the Application History screenSelect date of application and views PDF of their application 47.4 View CorrespondenceSelect ‘Claimant Inbox’ to view or search correspondence 1Select ‘Search’ to view all correspondencePlease note that correspondence needing attention (to be viewed or responded to) will automatically be displayed in the ‘Important Items’ section. They should not do a search until they have reviewed the displayed correspondence. 2Select a correspondence type from the ‘Subject’ field drop-down menu to search a specific correspondence typeSelect ‘Search’ 37.5 Respond to Fact Finding QuestionnaireYou may need to respond to fact finding during the Initial Claims, Continued Claims, Reopen Claims, and Employer Protest Charge processes. Fact finding questionnaires are generated after a non-monetary issue has been identified and there is a need to gather additional information. Select ‘Claimant Inbox’ to view or search correspondence 1Select ‘Issued Date’ on the Fact Finding Action Item 2The System displays the detail screen associated with the Fact Finding Action ItemCompletes the Fact Finding Action ItemThe System Removes the Action Item from the Action Item ListThe related correspondence is still available, just no longer marked as an Action Item 37.6 Save a fact finding questionnaireThe Fact Finding Summary screen will display all fact finding including any partially completed questionnairesPlease note that you will be able to upload documentation to attach to the fact-finding questionnaire. You are also able to print the fact-finding and may mail or fax documentation to DEO. Select a questionnaireBegin the questionnaire and select SaveThe System will display the following Error message to the User when a questionnaire is saved: “Your partially completed statement will not be considered unless it is completed and submitted prior to the Due Date”The System saves the questionnaire and displays it as a hyperlink in the Fact Finding Summary screen7.7 Open a partially completed fact finding questionnaireSelect the hyperlink in the Fact Finding Summary screen to open the questionnaireThe System displays the questionnaireComplete the questionnaire and select SubmitFile an AppealThis section describes the necessary actions to file an appeal in Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:Identify when a determination can be appealedUnderstand the steps to file an appealUpload documentsTo file an appeal, follow the steps below.Select ‘Determinations, Pending Issues, and Decision Summary’ on the left-hand menu of the Claimant Homepage to see outstanding determinations 1Select ‘Sort By: Appeals View’ to view appealable determinations 2Select “Issue ID” hyperlink to go to the Eligibility Determination Details screen.Please note that only issues with adverse determinations or decisions may be appealed. 3Select “View Determination” hyperlink to see a PDF of the determination in a new browser windowSelect “File Appeal” from the dropdown in the “Available Appeals Actions” section Select “Next” to navigate to File Appeal Information screen 6 4 5To review more information about appeals, select the ‘appeals pamphlet’ linkSelect ‘Next’ on the File Appeal Screen 7 8Navigate to the Appeal Request Information screenReview your informationSelect ‘Modify’ to make changes to contact informationEnter reason for appealEnter hearing details If you will be represented by an attorney or TPR, select ‘Yes’ to the first questionIf you will present witnesses, select ‘Yes’ to the second questionSelect ‘Next’ to confirm the appeals information 14 15 12 16 11Navigate to the Appeals Confirmation ScreenReview the information and select ‘Submit’ 18Navigate to Appeals Acknowledgement ScreenSelect ‘Next’ to advance to the Claimant Homepage 20 198.1 Assign and Maintain TPRSelect ‘Assign Maintain TPR’ from the left hand menu to update TPR informationSelect TPR from list if applicableSelect link to understand Role DefinitionsSelect ‘New’ to authorize a new TPR 4 2 3 1Enter TPR ID Select ‘Next’ 5 68.2 Add Representation to an appealIf you entered ‘Yes’ to the representation question, complete the representation list screenEnter Attorney or Representative’s name, firm, address, and telephone numberIf applicable, enter alternate appeal addressSelect ‘Next’ to advance to the Appeals Confirmation Screen 2 3 48.3 Add Witnesses to an appealIf you entered ‘Yes’ to the witness presentation question, complete the witness list screen by selecting ‘Add New’ to enter witness informationEnter the Witness First Name, Last Name, and Telephone NumberSelect ‘Save’Select ‘Next’ 48.4 Upload Appeal File(s)To upload a file to an appeal, follow the below steps:Upload a file to the “Appeal Case Folder” from the File Appeal screen by selecting ‘Yes’ to the question “Do you have any files related to the appeal to upload?” 1Select ‘Next’ to proceed to the “Upload Appeal File” screen 2Select the ‘Browse’ button to add a file from the local drive/network shared drive.Select the ‘Upload’ button.Enter the Description. Select the ‘Save’ button.If you choose to add another file, return to Step 3. Select Next. 8 6 5 4 38.5 Create Monetary ReconsiderationThis section describes the necessary actions to file a monetary appeal in Connect. It documents the steps necessary to perform the following:Appeal a Monetary Determination/Wage TranscriptUnderstand the steps to create a monetary reconsiderationUpload documentsTo file a monetary appeal, follow the below steps:Select the monetary determination from the Determinations and Decision Summary screen 1The Monetary Determination Detail screen populates.Answer the Monetary Determination Detail screen questionsSelect ‘Request Monetary Reconsideration’ 4 3 2The System displays the Claimant Request Reconsideration screen.If you disagree with wages displayed, update the wages displayed or enter new wages for quarters that do not contain any wages. Select ‘Next’ System displays the Upload Proof screen.Upload proof to each employer, if applicable. 910. Select ‘Submit’ to submit the Request for Reconsideration, or ‘Save’ to save and complete later 10Manage DebtIf you have an overpayment, the ‘Manage Debt’ link will be visible on the left-hand menu of the Claimant Homepage. You will select the Manage Debt link from the home page in order to make a payment, request or view a payment plan, view overpayment history, or review overpayment repayment history.9.1 View Overpayment HistorySelect ‘Manage Debt’System displays the Manage Debt screenSelect ‘View Overpayment History’ link 3 4System displays the Overpayment History screen9.2 Make a Payment Select ‘Manage Debt’System displays the Manage Debt screenSelect ‘Make a Payment 3System displays the Make a Payment screenEnter Payment AmountSelect Payment MethodSelect ‘Next’ 7 6 5If you selected ‘Electronic Payment,’ System will route you to an external Web site to enter credit card informationIf you selected ‘Check/Money Order/Cash,’ System will populate a Print Coupon screen to print and send with payment via USPS Mail9.3 View Overpayment RepaymentsSelect ‘Manage Debt’System displays the Manage Debt screenSelect ‘View Overpayment Repayments’ link 3 System displays the Overpayment Repayments screen 49.4 Request or View Payment PlanSelect ‘Manage Debt’System displays the Manage Debt screenSelect ‘View or Request Payment Plan’ link 3System displays the Payment Plan Request screenIf you would like to request a payment plan, review the term and payment options availableSelect the radio button next to the preferred payment planSelect ‘Next’ 4 7 6 5Review the Payment Plan AgreementReview the Agreement InstructionsSelect the certification statementSelect ‘Submit’ to complete the payment plan 11 10 9 8Frequently Asked QuestionsThis section covers Frequently Asked Questions, and distinguishes questions that you can find answers to on your own by using this guide or navigating CONNECT from questions where you will need to contact the DEO Call Center. In this section, we cover some of the common questions that you may have – please review those questions before contacting the DEO Call Center in the event that you are able to resolve the issue or answer the question on your own.10.1 When to contact the Call CenterThere are several reasons that you may want to contact the DEO Call Center. Sometimes, there are situations when this guide and the information available in CONNECT are unable to answer your questions. We’ve outlined some of those instances below to provide you a better understanding of the assistance the DEO Call Center is able to provide.CONNECT lists your claim as eligible, and you have claimed weeks but haven’t received a payment – this may be an issue or old disqualification on claimYou have reported earnings for several weeks, but have not received a payment – this may be due to a need to complete an additional claim to prompt the system to process the claimed weeksYou have received a favorable appeal decision in the mail but it is still not visible in CONNECT and you’d like to know your payment statusYou have received a notification that you owe an overpayment repayment on a claim, and would like to understand the reason You have received two conflicting determinations – one of the determinations should have been suppressed10.2 Common QuestionsMany of the questions that you may have can be answered by reviewing this guide or reviewing information available in CONNECT by logging into your claimant account. Here, we’ve outlined the common ones and directed you to the place in this guide or in CONNECT where you can find the answer.How are benefits paid?Payments are made via direct deposit to your bank account, or through a Florida Visa debit card. You will be asked to choose your payment method during the claim filing process. You can change your payment method preference after your claim is filed.A Debit Card allows your Reemployment Assistance payments to be deposited directly into a Florida Visa debit account in your name. Once your claim is established and determined payable, a Florida Visa account will be set up in your name and a Visa debit card sent to your mailing address.Direct Deposit allows your Reemployment Assistance payments to be deposited directly into your bank account. To establish direct deposit, you will need to provide the routing number and account number of your bank account.When are my benefits determined?Benefit amounts are determined after your claim has been filed and processed.How is Monetary Eligibility determined?You must have sufficient work and earnings in your base period to establish a monetarily eligible claim. To establish monetary eligibility you must:Have paid wages in two or more calendar quarters in the base periodHave total base period wages of at least 1-1/2 times the wages in the quarter having the highest earningsHave at least $3400 total wages in the base periodHow much will my Weekly Benefit Amount be?To calculate the weekly benefit amount (WBA), use the quarter in the base period with the highest earnings and divide the earnings by $26. The minimum WBA is $32 and the maximum WBA is $275.How long can I receive benefits?To calculate your Maximum Benefit Amount (MBA), divide your total base period wages by 4. Compare the current Florida MBA of $5500, which is 20 multiplied by the current maximum WBA. Your MBA will be the lesser of the 2 amounts. You have a one year period from the Benefit Year Beginning (BYB) date of your claim to use your MBA. Once you have been paid your total MBA, you cannot file a new claim until after your Benefit Year Ending (BTE) date. The maximum number of weeks that can be paid is calculated by dividing your maximum benefit amount by your weekely benefit rate.The maximum number of weeks:May change each year for new claims filed on or after January 1Is based upon Florida’s average unemployment rate during the prior yearThe current range of weeks that can be paid is 12 to 20Where is the link for the Initial Skills Assessment?On the Claimant Homepage left-hand menu.Why have I not received my debit card with payment?You may have non-monetary issues pending – check your claimant inbox for information.Was my claim was filed correctly?Check your Claimant Inbox and view ‘Action Items’ to understand if you have any issues to correct, or select ‘Determinations, Pending Issues, and Decision Summaries’ from the left-hand menu on the Claimant Homepage to view pending issuesWere my weeks were filed correctly?Check your Claimant Inbox and view ‘Action Items’ to understand if you have any issues to correct, or select ‘Determinations, Pending Issues, and Decision Summaries’ from the left-hand menu on the Claimant Homepage to view pending issuesI made a mistake on my claim – how can I fix it?[TBD]What is the status of my pending issue? Select ‘Determinations, Pending Issues, and Decision Summaries’ from the left-hand menu on the Claimant Homepage to view pending issues and determinationsWhy is the WIC screen not updated?[TBD]How do I obtain a copy of my claim information that I entered into CONNECT?Select ‘Print Preview’ from the upper right-hand corner of the screen and follow the instructions to print the page.CONNECT will not allow me to advance to the next screen – how do I fix this?Likely, you have missed a required field – these fields are marked with a red asterisk, and you will receive an error message at the top of the screen if you left one blank or entered an incorrect response. Double-check your data fields and re-submit or select ‘Next’ to move on.Why have I not received a response from the adjudicator?Your call or email is placed in a queue based on the time you contacted DEO, and will be addressed as promptly as possible.I received a voicemail from someone at DEO – who called, and why did they call me?Sometimes DEO staff may contact you for more information – typically, this is follow up to a fact-finding questionnaire or action item. Check your Claimant Homepage Action Items and your Claimant Inbox to see if you have any outstanding actions I did not receive my direct deposit, but CONNECT indicates a payment was madeFirst, check to make sure your bank account information was entered correctly – you can access this information from the Claimant Homepage by selecting ‘View and Maintain Account Information’Next, check with your bank – sometimes, it takes a few days for a payment to post to your accountWhy am I unable to collect from my most recent employer?It is important to understand the Reemployment Assistance Program policies to understand the timeframes that affect your ability to claim benefits against an employer – please review the Eligibility Information link under the ‘Request Benefit Payments’ link on the Claimant Homepage (or review section 5.0, ‘Apply for Benefits,’ in this document).What if I worked in more than one state?If you reside in Florida, but worked the past 18 months in another state, you may not be eligible to receive benefits in Florida. If you were employed in Florida and one or more other states in the past 18 months, you may be eligible for reemployment assistance benefits in Florida. You are required to report all work for every state in which you were employed. If you do not list a state in which you were employed, it may affect your eligibility for benefits. For more information on filing in another state, visit . If you were employed in a different state, but for the same employer, you must still list each state separately.10.3 Other QuestionsFor other questions, please review the FAQ section of the DEO Web site – you can access it from the Claimant Homepage by selecting the ‘FAQs’ link from the left-hand menu:GlossaryA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZAppendix ................
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