By Ruben Sevumyants, owner of Pomogu
Three things catch a lot of newcomers off guard: unemployment benefits, health insurance and car insurance. Each has its own vocabulary, its own offices and its own forms. Below is a high-level overview of how each one works and who to contact. This article is general information only, not legal or immigration advice. The rules depend on your state and your situation, so the official source always has the final word.
What it is. Unemployment insurance is a state program that may provide temporary payments to some people who lost a job through no fault of their own. It is run by each state, not by the federal government alone.
Who to call. The state Department of Labor: the New York State Department of Labor, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, or the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. Each one explains who may qualify and how to apply. You can find your state agency through usa.gov.
What to expect. Generally, you apply with the state agency, provide information about your work history and the reason the job ended, and then follow its instructions to keep the claim active. Whether you qualify, and how much you might receive, is decided by the state, so don't rely on guesses from friends or the internet.
Where translation helps. If the forms or letters are hard to understand, or you need work records translated, it's fine to get help. Just make sure the information you submit is accurate and in your own words, and that you keep copies.
What it is. Health insurance is a plan that helps pay for medical care. You (or your employer) usually pay a regular amount to the plan, and the plan covers some of the cost of visits, medications and treatment, according to its rules.
Who to call. Many people get coverage through an employer. Others use the health insurance marketplace in their state: NY State of Health in New York, Get Covered NJ in New Jersey, and Pennie in Pennsylvania. Each marketplace has information on plans and on programs you may qualify for. You can also learn the basics at healthcare.gov, which will direct you to the right place for your state.
What to expect. Plans differ in which doctors and hospitals they work with, so before you book an appointment, check that your doctor accepts your specific plan. Take time to understand terms like "premium," "deductible" and "network." A marketplace or the plan itself can explain each one.
Where translation and accompaniment help. Insurance language is difficult even for native English speakers. A translator or a person who can sit with you while you compare options and fill in the application can make the process much less stressful.
What it is. If you drive, your state expects you to have car insurance that meets its requirements. It's a contract with a private insurance company that helps cover costs if there is an accident.
Who to call. The rules are set by each state, so start with the state DMV and the state insurance department in New York, New Jersey or Pennsylvania. They explain what is required. Then ask licensed insurance companies or agents for quotes. Get quotes from more than one so you can compare coverage and terms.
What to expect. When you ask for a quote, you'll typically be asked about your driving record, your car and where it's parked. Ask the insurer to explain what is covered and what isn't, and keep your proof of insurance in the car.
Use official government and marketplace websites. Look carefully at web addresses, and be careful with look-alike sites.
Keep copies of everything you submit and note the date, the name of the person you spoke with and what they said.
Respond promptly when an agency or insurer writes to you.
If any of this feels overwhelming, Pomogu can help Russian-speaking newcomers with translation and paperwork for unemployment benefits, medical insurance and auto insurance, and can accompany you to appointments and interviews across New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Learn more at pomogusa.com.