How does unemployment affect you as an individual?

Unemployment helps when you have been fired, laid off, or discharged in any way. Depending on the state your in depends on how you file the Unemployment, although I assume most states have an online system similar to NJ's. After you file you will get more information about the unemployment claim, and approx figures as to what your "benefit amount" would be, basically how much you will earn per week. The "benefit amount" is based on about 60% of your pre tax income from the most recent quarter (meaning Jan- Mar, Apr-Jun) and so on. Once you start your claim the Unemployment agency will guide you through the rest of the process. You will even have to attend a class as to how Unemployment works and how to use your states job locating site. They will help you create a resume and everything. For the unemployed person, unemployment can lead to depression and low self-esteem, not to mention homelessness. But unemployment doesn't just affect the unemployed (people without jobs who are seeking work). Unemployment leads to increased crime and domestic violence. Also, high unemployment means that the government has to make lots of welfare payments -- with money that comes from taxpayers. In short, unemployment affects EVERYONE.