Construction Law

Contesting Unemployment Benefits Claims for Contractors Part 1

Let’s face it, no business owner is particularly fond of unemployment benefits claims. It’s not hard to see why — fewer successful unemployment claims equals a lower overall tax rate. This is incentive enough to start contesting unemployment benefits. But is this the right move for your contracting business? 

In this three-part series, an Orlando construction lawyer from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants will discuss everything contractors need to know about contesting unemployment benefits claims. In addition to informing your strategy for dealing with these claims, we’ll give you tips for maximizing profits and reducing your operational costs. If you’ve received a claim that you want to contest, consult an Orlando construction lawyer for information on how to proceed. 

The Root of the Issue

As an employer, you’re looking to reduce costs to improve your bottom line. This is how business is done, but not all cost-saving strategies are foolproof. If you start cutting back on your employment numbers, you could face an influx of costly unemployment claims. From a logical standpoint, contesting each and every claim you receive could potentially reduce the total number of claims you’re forced to deal with. Unfortunately, it’s not always that easy. There are times when contesting a claim is a solid plan, but this may not be the case in certain situations as we’ll discuss in parts two and three.

The Danger of Presumption When Awarding Claims 

One of the primary reasons why you should consider having an Orlando construction lawyer assist you with contesting unemployment claims is that employers who fail to contest typically end up paying out of pocket for these expenses. It may feel like you don’t have very much control over whether or not a former employee is awarded unemployment benefits, but this isn’t necessarily true. Although the state unemployment office has the final say on whether or not benefits will be awarded, you can contest the claim. If you don’t, the presumption that no conduct worthy of disqualification took place will likely result in the awarding of benefits. Therefore, if you want to prevent a claim from automatically resulting in benefits, you have no choice but to contest.

In parts two and three, our Orlando construction lawyers will explain when you should and shouldn’t contest an unemployment benefits claim. 

If you would like to speak with one of our Orlando construction lawyers, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.