Hi, I'm Kurt Curtin, and today we're going to be talking about three important things to do to get your unemployment benefits started if you've lost your job. I'm sorry, I can definitely relate. I've been through six layoffs in my career. But the good news is, this video is for you if you've ever had to file for unemployment benefits before. You know it's not an easy process, so either way, some direction wouldn't hurt. So here we go: Qualifying - If you were let go for a qualifying reason (lack of work, downsizing, etc.) and you didn't quit, go ahead and file right away to get your benefits started as soon as possible. There's processing time involved, and also if you wait too long, you may lose several weeks of pay. If you got a severance package, you still have the right to file for unemployment benefits unless you signed an agreement upon your hire that you would not. But this video is going to assume that you didn't. Filing - Don't be too proud. Employers pay into this fund and you deserve it. This is money that's available to you to help get you back on your feet and to the next right position. The requirements and details will vary a bit by state, but generally, here's how it should go: If your state is like Tennessee, it's all done online, which is faster than trying for weeks to get through on the phone and waiting on hold forever. So search the web for the right website, ask a friend, or if need be, call your local department of labor for the web address. If you have a special situation like I did at one point in my career, it may require additional contact or explanation, so again, call...