Ok, I fear there is a long rant coming so you've been warned.
So, I'm unemployed and trying to run a business (not making a dime yet). I'm on unemployment right now and getting what is commonly referred to as food stamps (it's a debit card that's refilled once a month).
So, Back when I was laid off the first time (permanent lay-off, it's the only way the execs could afford to keep driving expensive euro cars and jet-setting all over the world) I was denied unemployment. I won't get into that story right now as it's a long one. Anyway I went through the appeal processes and finally had my day in (unemployment) court. They ruled with ME. I was stunned. They only awarded me less than 1/2 of what I had coming but I was so stunned to get anything I skipped out of there giggling. About 7 months later I get a letter from the UIA (Unemployment Insurance Admin) telling me they don't agree with their ruling and will be taking money out of my unemployment benefits untill the balance is paid in full.
I did have one hope. I could file for a waiver for broke folks that can't afford to pay it back. Sweet. While reading the fine print I see that the waiver is only good for the balance due at the time of the waiver determination, nothing will be paid back. Then I see that there is a 8 week period before your case is even considered. Guess how many insallments they are going to take out.....wait for it......8 weeks! So, they give you an out and tell you the out won't work. So, I bend over, apply the KY and take it!
Fast forward a few months. Last week I get home from helping my mom and there is a letter in the mailbox from the gubment. Seems they made another error, this time in the food allowance. They feel they overpaid us to the tune of $2100 and expect that back. My wife went to the hearing this morning and they admitted it is 101% NOT OUR FAULT. Then they went on to show us where it says they are not responsible for anything they do. They made a mistake, now we pay for it. We will be getting 20% less food assistance from here on out to repay this. I suppose it doesn't matter than what we were getting was JUST enough as it is.
My wife does an incredible job of saving money by clipping cupons and the like. On her last shopping trip she saved 42% off our bill. Even at that we have just enough to feed our kids and us. Typically we run out of money with less than a week to go.
Not expecting answers, just venting. Thanks.
