#Work search activity free#

While federal law requires all states have a work search requirement, states are given a great deal of latitude in defining it. States should act to minimize burdensome work search reporting requirements and remove unnecessary barriers to accessing UI benefits. At the same time, strict work search reporting rules create yet another barrier for workers, including Black workers and other workers of color who already face disproportionate obstacles to accessing unemployment benefits as a result of structural racism in the economy.

Ĭalls for stringent work search requirements tap into age-old racist stereotypes that depict unemployed workers as lazy and unmotivated to seek work unless they face harsh penalties. Many state policymakers have established onerous requirements for documenting work search activities, which may result in workers’ benefits being cut off without improving their prospects for finding a good job. When an unemployed worker files a claim to continue receiving unemployment insurance (UI) benefits each week, they must certify that they have been actively seeking work. Examples of work search exemptions are discussed below. If a worker meets the requirements for an exemption in any given week, they cannot be deemed ineligible for UI if they do not look for work in that week. Work Search Exemption: A federal or state law or policy that exempts workers in certain circumstances from work search requirements. RESEA participation requires the worker to participate in a meeting with AJC staff, where they are provided reemployment services and continuing UI eligibility is assessed. In some states, RESEA participation is mandatory for all UI recipients. Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA): A federal program that funds state reemployment services for workers deemed likely to exhaust their allotted weeks of UI benefits before finding work.

Improper Payment: A UI payment that an employment agency determines should not have been made to a recipient. AJCs operate the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment program (see below) that plays a part in supporting and monitoring workers’ work search activities. In some states AJCs are integrated into the state employment agency and in others they operate independently.

#Work search activity free#

This post was originally published at an earlier date.Unemployment Insurance (UI) Work Search DefinitionsĪmerican Jobs Centers (AJCs): Organizations that provide free reemployment services for unemployed workers. Join our career growth club today and get access to one-on-one career coaching, resume and cover letter reviews, online tutorials, and unlimited networking opportunities-all in your back pocket!Ĭheck out our FREE resources page and Live Events Calendar. Instead, consider this time an opportunity to take on new challenges as you wait for your dream job.ĭo you need help with your job search? We're here for you! Don't let a lack of employment sour your demeanor. If you're able to keep a positive attitude while in between jobs, you're more likely to maintain this attitude when you're finally employed. And finally, you get the opportunity to network with professionals who might provide you with a lead or two about new career opportunities. In addition, you get to add your volunteer efforts to your resume to show you've been busy in between jobs. Also, you will keep your mind sharp so that you're ready to hit the ground running when you do find work. For one thing, you can help someone (or some animal) in need. There are a number of benefits that can arise from volunteering. Everyone's home life is unique and allows for certain options, but if you find that you have time in your schedule, then consider volunteering at a local organization a couple of days a week.