Unemployment insurance is a type of insurance providing you with a minimum level of compensation if you become unemployed. This insurance is a federal-state program jointly financed through the payroll taxes deducted from each of your paychecks.

For most states you are limited to 26 weeks of unemployment compensation benefits. However, extended benefit programs may apply during certain economic conditions. For example, a temporary program may be passed at the federal or state level that extends benefits for a specified period of time.

Unemployment insurance laws vary from state-to-state. For more information on the laws that apply to you, visit your state's website and search "unemployment insurance."