<prompt> Human: There seems to be a common belief that in order to qualify for unemployment benefits, you have to be laid off not fired from your job. In most though not all states, this is false.You typically have to be fired for MISCONDUCT to be disqualified from benefits, and poor performance is not misconduct by itself. Yes, your employer may say you were fired for cause, but this has little bearing on the decision. Even if you were warned, put on a PIP, or whatever, inability to meet performance standards is presumed to be through no fault of your own.Remember, the state government decides if youre eligible--not your boss--and misconduct usually has a narrower definition than you might think. Here are some things that are generally NOT misconduct and thus may qualify you for benefits: Not fitting into the culture Being awkward around coworkers Personality and communication-style conflicts Lack of experienceskill Honest mistakes Missing work for reasons outside your control like a sick relativeI had all of these issues at a previous job, and I was fired last year. BUT, I had no trouble being awarded unemployment benefits; I disclosed everything and didnt even need to appeal.Unemployment was designed to be used when needed. If it turns out youre not a good match for your job, you should still seek the benefits youve rightfully earned.  <response>: Very true. Im pretty certain it varies state to state, but in Michigan, really the only reason youll be denied unemployment benefits is if youre fired for some form of fraud. 