Learn how small business owners can navigate the complexities of unemployment, from eligibility requirements to financial support.
Ready to form another business? Starts at $0 + state fees and only takes 5-10 minutes
Starting a business is a huge accomplishment, but it can also come with challenges, including understanding how unemployment works as a small business owner. Unemployment is designed to help individuals who are temporarily out of work and in need of financial assistance. However, as a small business owner, you may have different options depending on the structure of your business.
In this article, we’ll explain how unemployment works for different business structures and provide resources for small business owners who may be struggling.
To qualify for unemployment benefits as a small business owner, you must meet certain requirements:
Unemployment benefits are designed to help individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. However, the rules surrounding unemployment benefits for small business owners can be complex, as it depends on the structure of the business.
Different business structures, such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations, have different rules and regulations surrounding unemployment benefits. It’s important for small business owners to understand these rules to ensure they are eligible for unemployment benefits if they need them.
If you are a sole proprietor, you’re considered self-employed and are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits. However, some states may allow you to collect benefits if your business has experienced a significant loss of income. For more information please see: What is a Sole Proprietorship?
Partnerships are similar to sole proprietorships in that partners are considered self-employed and may not be eligible for unemployment benefits. However, in some states, partners may be eligible for benefits if they can prove a significant loss of income.
If you own a limited liability company (LLC), you may be able to collect unemployment benefits depending on the state in which you operate. In some states, LLC owners are considered self-employed and are therefore not eligible for benefits. In other states, however, LLC owners may be eligible for benefits if they can prove a significant loss of income.
If you own a What is a C corporation? and are employed by the corporation, you’re considered an employee of the company and may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you lose your job. However, keep in mind that as a shareholder, you may not be eligible for benefits.
If you own an S corporation (please see our What is an S Corp? page) and take a regular paycheck from the business, you are also considered an employee of the company and may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you lose your job. However, as with C corporations, shareholders may not be eligible for benefits.
In addition to unemployment benefits, small business owners have a range of resources available to help them navigate financial challenges.
If your business has been affected by a natural disaster or other emergency, you may be eligible for disaster relief programs. These programs provide financial assistance to businesses that have suffered losses due to an unexpected event.
Another option for small business owners who are struggling is to apply for a business loan. Many banks and other financial institutions offer loans specifically designed for small businesses.
While not always recommended, borrowing from a retirement account may be an option for small business owners who are in need of financial assistance. Keep in mind that there may be penalties and tax implications associated with borrowing from a retirement account.
Having the right business insurance can help protect your business in the event of an unexpected loss. This can include insurance for property damage, liability, and other risks that may affect your business.
At ZenBusiness, we understand the challenges that come with starting and running a small business. That’s why we offer a range of services to help you get started and stay on track. Our LLC formation services are designed to make starting your business worry-free, and our ongoing compliance services will help ensure that you stay in good standing with the state.
Additionally, our platform provides access to resources like invoicing tools, as well as website building and domain registration services. Get started today for $0 and let us help you focus on growing your business.
Can an LLC owner collect unemployment?
Yes, an LLC owner may be eligible to collect unemployment benefits if they meet certain criteria. In general, to qualify for unemployment benefits, an LLC owner must have been an employee of the company and paid into the state unemployment insurance system. Additionally, the LLC must have paid unemployment taxes on behalf of the owner. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding unemployment benefits, so it’s important to check with your state’s unemployment agency to determine eligibility.
If a business is sold, can I collect unemployment?
If a business is sold, the new owner assumes responsibility for any unemployment insurance obligations. In most cases, the employees of the business are also transferred to the new owner. If an employee is laid off or terminated as a result of the sale, they may be eligible for unemployment benefits if they meet the requirements set by the state. However, if an owner voluntarily sells their business and no longer has an employment relationship with the company, they would not be eligible for unemployment benefits.
Do small businesses have to pay unemployment?
In most states, small businesses are required to pay unemployment insurance taxes. The amount of taxes a small business must pay is based on the number of employees, the amount of wages paid, and the company’s history of layoffs and unemployment claims. The purpose of these taxes is to fund the state unemployment insurance system, which provides benefits to eligible employees who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.
Additional Resources
Start an LLC in Your State
When it comes to compliance, costs, and other factors, these are popular states for forming an LLC.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.
Written by Team ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness has helped people start, run, and grow over 700,000 dream companies. The editorial team at ZenBusiness has over 20 years of collective small business publishing experience and is composed of business formation experts who are dedicated to empowering and educating entrepreneurs about owning a company.
Ready to Start Your LLC?
Ready to Start a New Business?