We are relocating to IN and I am 5mos pregnant. I've been trying to find out if I can file for unemployment benefits when we move. I have been employed full time and am only leaving because of this relocation. I realize I could try and find a job when I get there but feel it wouldn't be fair to an employer to start a position only to have to take 6wks off in 4 mos.

Thanks for your help.

You are free to apply but in most if not all states, it is a requirement to receive benefits that you be actively looking for employment. If you are not looking to find a new job until after your baby is born (congratulations, btw) it is not likely you will qualify.

It can't hurt to try, though. There's no penalty for applying if you don't qualify.

BTW, you will have a much better shot (though nothing is guaranteed) filing in the state you are leaving rather than the one you are moving to.

Thank you for the information! We weren't sure of which state to file in either and you answered that question!

If I file in my current state (Michigan) will this claim be sent to my former employer? Also, when applying should I only state that the reason for leaving my job is related to my spouse's job transfer and leave out the fact that I'm pregnant?

(Thanks for the congrats on our family addition)

Yes, the claim will be sent to your employer (no matter where you file it, if I'm not mistaken). There's no way to file for unemployment without your former employer knowing about it. They have the right to contest, although the state, not your employer, will make the final decision.

I don't see any need to mention your pregnancy, but you will be asked on a regular basis whether or not you are looking for work (in my state, you have to answer that question every week when you file, and you have to keep a log showing where you applied which the UI office has the right to demand at any time - I don't know if either Michigan or Indiana has such a requirement, though).

A VERY few states permit benefits upon your quitting to follow a relocating spouse. I don't know if either Michigan or Indiana does. But it's a pretty cut and dried affair for that reason. It's not something that's subject to opinion where one adjudicator might see it one way and another adjudicator see it another way. Either it's a qualifying reason in your state or it's not. If you get declined, don't bother appealing. I suppose you could then try applying in Indiana, but Indiana has never received any unemployment tax on your behalf from any employer - why would they want to give you any benefits? :)