Unemployment benefits after L1B laid off while transitioning to GC (I-485)

[Luke1]

Hi Everyone,

while I was on L1B my employment got terminated. I got married a few months ago (while I was still employed) and I submitted all the forms for the change of status (I-485..I-130..etc).

Now my doubt is: My employer is saying that I'm eligible for unemployment benefits, but I don't think that's true since I was on L1B. I cant work for anybody until I receive my EAC, but I'm pretty sure I'm not eligible for unemployment benefits after being laid off on L1B

Thoughts/ Advices?

Thank you all

[newacct]

Hi Everyone,

while I was on L1B my employment got terminated. I got married a few months ago (while I was still employed) and I submitted all the forms for the change of status (I-485..I-130..etc).

Now my doubt is: My employer is saying that I'm eligible for unemployment benefits, but I don't think that's true since I was on L1B. I cant work for anybody until I receive my EAC, but I'm pretty sure I'm not eligible for unemployment benefits after being laid off on L1B

Thoughts/ Advices?

Thank you all

Eligibility for unemployment benefits is determined by your particular state's laws. In general, you must be "available to work" including having an immigration status authorizing you to work for any employer, to be able to get unemployment benefits. You are not authorized to work until you get your EAD. Once you get your EAD, you can apply for unemployment benefits, assuming you meet all the other requirements.

[Luke1]

Thank you newacct for helping out, that makes total sense!