Can my former employer ask me to sign away my rights to Unemployment Insurance or is that my right regardless?

Assuming that your waiver is balanced with consideration such as additional compensation, I don't see anything wrong with such.

Can an arrest for disorderly conduct affect my employment if i was hired but the background check was not done yet?

Tough one but I would state not to lie in regards to your criminal history since such could be used as a basis for your termination.

Should I be paid if my employer closed the office, the morning of?

Assuming that you are not part of any union, If you didn't work, you would not be eligible for compensation.

IRS just sent me a letter wondering why I did not claim monies from a 132A discrimination case settlement?

The issue will turn on the basis of the settlement. Was it compensation for a physical injury, lost wages, etc? That would form the taxability or...

I am here on a tourist visa and have been offered a job. can i get a work permit?

Yes you can but there are many more questions I would need to ask you before giving you a complete answer. Please feel free to contact me.

Can I file unemployment?

I'm not an attorney from your state, but it sounds as if this is a "constructive discharge". I would still file an unemployment claim.

If an employee signs a "voluntary resignation" as an only way to receive severence, can unemployment then be denied?

Generally speaking, you can be disqualified from unemployment benefits through voluntary resignation or misconduct. Since your unemployment would...

If I am fired for working from my home office, may I collect unemployment insurance benefits?

The quick answer is I don't know. I would have to probably interview you regarding the nature of the business, your duties, etc.

As an at will employee, she can.

Promised Promotion

Are you part of a union?