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Dear Consumer Action:

My unemployment benefits were stopped, and the state says it is because of misconduct on my last job. I never found out the reason for the misconduct allegations, even after several letters. The unemployment program owes me about $8,000, which I know I will never receive, even though I was a nurse for 52 years and paid into the system all that time.

The state wants to have a hearing on my unemployment claim, but is there any way you can help me avoid that? I have a serious illness, live in an assisted-living facility, and transportation is a problem for me right now.

I'm a registered nurse and have applied for several jobs, but I know it is my age that keeps them from hiring me (I am 81 years old). I am capable of doing light duty and reception jobs. - J.S., Toms River

The state unemployment program has strict rules and procedures. It is important that you go to the hearing and represent your side of the story. That is the only way you can pursue your right to the funds. And if you do not go, and the decision goes against you, you may end up having to pay back whatever money you received from unemployment.

As long as your former job qualifies you for benefits, you are still capable of working and can certify with the state that you are actively looking for work, your age will not affect your eligibility to collect unemployment benefits. Collecting Social Security also has no effect on unemployment, although some private pension plans will cause unemployment benefits to decrease.

But it sounds like your former employer has told the state you were fired for cause, which would make you ineligible for benefits unless you can show that report is incorrect.

You may also qualify for help from the state Vocational Rehabilitation Program, run through the Department of Labor. Call the Toms River office at 732-505-2310 for more information.

The program provides disabled people who want to work with vocational counseling, placement services, supported employment and help with job accommodations and other services. Your serious illness may qualify you for help.

For more information, and locations near you, click on the link with this story at:

www.PressofAtlanticCity.com

Also, there is no reason to tell a potential employer your date of birth. It is illegal for the employer to even ask you how old you are. What matters is your ability, not age.

New tax checkoffs

Starting in the tax year for 2010, New Jersey state taxpayers will be able to make voluntary contributions on their tax returns in support of community food banks and pet spay/neuter programs, thanks to a law passed in September.

The Community Food Pantry Fund and Cat and Dog Spay/Neuter funds were set up by a law passed Sept. 8.

Look for the checkoffs on your state tax paperwork for 2010 and beyond.

Consumer Action will respond to each properly submitted letter about a problem or question, either in this column or by letter or phone. Letters must include copies - not originals - of all relevant documentation and a name, address and phone number at which you can be reached. Send letters to: Consumer Action, The Press, 11 Devins Lane, Pleasantville, NJ 08232.

To learn more

1 comment:

• executioner1 (307) posts 11:06 am

  Worked 52 years and paid into the system and has to put up with this. Wow. I wonder if she belongs to S.E.I.U.?

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