Most labor dispute situations disqualify you for unemployment benefits. If you are on strike, you are considered to have voluntarily left your job even if you feel that you have a good reason to do so. You have the right to unionize and participate in that type of activity. Most state legislatures will not allow striking workers to receive unemployment benefits due to work stoppages caused by the labor dispute. If you are unemployed due to a lockout, you will receive benefits. An employer’s lockout would mean that your employer does not allow you to work unless you agree to their terms in the dispute.