How long do you have to work to collect?

To collect unemployment benefits, the specific work duration required varies by state or country, but generally, you must have worked a certain number of hours or earned a minimum amount of wages during a specified base period, often the last 12 to 18 months. Typically, this could mean having worked for at least 6 to 12 months before losing your job. It's essential to check local regulations for precise requirements, as they can differ significantly.