Filing for Unemployment Benefits: A Guide for Hartsville, South Carolina Residents

If you recently became unemployed in Hartsville or elsewhere in South Carolina, understanding your options for unemployment assistance is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about filing for unemployment benefits through South Carolina’s Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW).

Eligibility Requirements for South Carolina Unemployment Benefits

Before submitting your claim, you’ll need to meet several specific requirements to qualify for unemployment assistance:

1. You must be currently unemployed. Part-time workers earning less than their potential unemployment benefit can still apply and receive assistance.

2. Job loss must be beyond your control. This includes layoffs, company closures, and circumstances like those created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

3. You must be able to work. Your application will verify that you’re physically and legally able to return to employment.

4. You need to be actively available for work. Demonstrate your willingness to take new opportunities.

5. You should actively search for new employment. You’ll need to periodically report to an SC Works Center and document your job search efforts.

6. You must have earned sufficient wages. South Carolina requires applicants to have earned a minimum amount during the previous year to establish eligibility.

How to File Your Unemployment Claim Through South Carolina’s System

Submitting your unemployment application is straightforward and can be completed online. Here’s the process:

Access the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce’s MyBenefits portal to start your application. You’ll need to create an account if you don’t already have one, then file your initial unemployment insurance claim.

Prepare these documents before you begin:

• Your Social Security number
• Employment history for the past two years
• Employer names and contact details
• Total earnings from each employer
• Direct deposit banking information (if you prefer electronic payments)

After submission, the DEW will review your application to determine if you meet the requirements. Important: You must submit a weekly claim form every week during the application review process—don’t wait for approval to do this.

Understanding Your Unemployment Benefit Payments

The amount you receive depends on your recent earnings history. South Carolina’s unemployment benefits ranged from a $42 minimum to a $326 maximum weekly benefit during standard periods. The state uses a formula designed to replace approximately 50% of your average weekly wage before job loss.

For example, if you earned $600 per week before becoming unemployed, you could expect to receive around $300 weekly from unemployment benefits.

Keep in mind that unemployment benefits are considered taxable income, so the amounts listed are pre-tax calculations.

During emergency periods, such as the temporary provisions included in pandemic relief legislation, supplemental payments were added to standard benefits, potentially increasing your total assistance significantly.

How Long You Can Collect Unemployment and What to Do If Denied

As long as you continue meeting the eligibility requirements outlined above, you can renew your unemployment claim each week. Standard coverage typically extends for a maximum of 20 weeks. During times of national economic crisis, this period may be extended by as much as 13 additional weeks, potentially doubling your eligibility window.

If your unemployment claim receives a denial, don’t assume the process is over. You have the right to appeal within 10 calendar days from the denial date. You can file your appeal through your MyBenefits account online, submit it by fax, or mail a written appeal to the DEW.

For detailed information about South Carolina unemployment benefits and Hartsville-area resources, visit the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce’s Applicant Reference Guide. If you’re facing financial challenges during unemployment, check the agency’s website for updates on benefit provisions and available support programs.