Eligiblity for Unemployment Compensation for a Freelancer

[AAM]

My question involves unemployment benefits for the state of: PA

I just got laid off and I am considering doing freelance work which may not be very frequent and woudl like to claim unemployment compensation for the weeks that i don't work.

My questions are:

How can I make sure that I am NOT determined to be "self-employed" or a "business" which will disqualify me from receiving unemployment compensation?

As an independent contractor, can I use a name such as ABC Graphics to do freelance work, have a bank account in that name and also and receive checks?

Any limits to the amount of earnings I receive in a particular time period that may effect my unemployment compensation for other weeks that I don't work?

[Mr. Knowitall]

1. You can't. If you develop sufficient business, you will be self-employed and you will be disqualified from UI.

2. Ask your bank what they require. They'll probably want at least a D/B/A.

3. I suggest discussing your situation with your agent when you apply.

[taxprofessional77]

I am being paid on a 1099 for doing temporary work for an employment agency. I would like to collect unemployment benefits when this position ends, but since I am paid on a 1099, unemployment tax is not being paid by my firm.

Assume I set up a partnership with another person. I will own less than 5% interest. Can the partnership pay unemployment tax to the state on my behalf which will enable me to collect unemployment insurance if the position ends? If not, is there any other way to pay and collect unemployment insurance while being paid on a 1099? Thx.