My question involves unemployment benefits for the state of: Not Sure..either Florida or Virginia.
I am employed by an American Defense Company whom, like most defense companies, are based in the U.S. (Virginia) and have international opportunities overseas, particularly the Middle-East who assist with military operations. I have been employeed by my company for 2 and 1/2 years, however this environment is causing much hardship and is dangerous to say the least. I foresee a mental and physical breakdown very soon, however I am trying to maintain my sanity everyday.
My questions begin with this:
1. If I decide to leave the Middle-East and return to the U.S. before my contract is over, can I claim unemployment? I understand that I will be resigning and under normal circumstances in the U.S., this would not allow me to collect benefits, however I cannot readily look for work and attend interviews in the U.S. if I am here.
2. If I could leave here and claim unemployment, which state would I file from? The company is located in Virginia, however I am a Florida resident whom never performed work in my state. My pay statements show Florida as the "primary tax state" and then Virginia as my "secondary tax state". I don't pay taxes in Virginia, however I believe the company must pay the unemployment tax from that state. I am not taxed at all due to this location being cited as a "danger zone".
3. I reviewed the state and federal statutes regarding my dilemma, but could not find anything pertaining to my situation. The UI office I contacted in Florida told me to come in after I explained my situation...I tried to emphasize the words "Middle-East," however the rep must not understand how geographically separated I really am.
I thank anyone who reads my post and the same with anyone who has a thought provoking response.

