claim ing unemployment benefits whilst on a 10 year GC

[sharky 2]

Hi guys,

I have a bit of a dilemma and I was wondering if anyone could help me out with this question. I came in to the US on a K1 fiance visa, was married but then unfortunately my marriage ended and was since granted a 10 yr GC and lived life happily in the USA.

Recently I was unfortunate enough to be laid off from my job and was considering applying for unemployment benefits, as I have paid in to this ever since I came to the US. My dilemma is, however, that I remember when my fiancee's parents signed an affidavit of support before we got married, that they were legally financially responsible for me until I became a US citizien (I am applying in July) or until I left the country.

I also remember reading somewhere that should I apply for benefits they would be liable to be fined up to $10,000. Can anyone shed any light on this? Is this true? or is there more to it?

I feel I am entitled to get benefits to help me live and pay the rent, but at the same time (even though I don't speak to my fiancee anymore) I feel somewhat hesitant in applying, should they be fined.

any help on this would be invaluable,

I hope you are all having a great day!

Paul

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

Unemployment benefits are okay. Your employer pays into that, not the US government. If you qualify, take the benefit. Your ex in-laws will not be affected.

[sharky 2]

Unemployment benefits are okay. Your employer pays into that, not the US government. If you qualify, take the benefit. Your ex in-laws will not be affected.

really? Then what the heck was I reading??

[thejoz 0]

The act of "becoming a public charge" (which support from your spouse or co-sponsors is supposed to protect you against, financially) requires you to draw on public, federal resources, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Something that your employer pays in to, like a worker's compensation program or an unemployment program, doesn't count as that. Because it's something you wouldn't be entitled to if you weren't already working for them; see what I mean?

[sharky 2]

The act of "becoming a public charge" (which support from your spouse or co-sponsors is supposed to protect you against, financially) requires you to draw on public, federal resources, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Something that your employer pays in to, like a worker's compensation program or an unemployment program, doesn't count as that. Because it's something you wouldn't be entitled to if you weren't already working for them; see what I mean?

thanks for clarifying that! You have put my mind at rest