What are the eligibility requirements to receive unemployment benefits?

As of 2015, to be eligible for unemployment benefits, applicants must be unemployed through no fault of their own. In most states, they must also meet other eligibility requirements, such as meeting certain income thresholds and hours worked, according to Nolo.

Workers who are laid off, lose employment for reasons other than misconduct or quit for good cause are eligible for unemployment benefits, notes Nolo. Although eligibility requirements vary from state to state, most states require the applicant to provide proof that they are actively looking for employment while they are receiving benefits. Benefits are usually paid weekly for up to 26 weeks and are calculated as a percentage of past earnings.