Unemployment FAQ

Q: How long will you receive your benefits?

A: Typically, you’ll get a check every two weeks for around 3 to 6 months. During which time you’re required to be actively looking for a job. Searching online for a job counts towards your required search! So make sure you have an updated resume uploaded on the big job search engines like Monster.com, Hotjobs.com, and Careerbuilder. Sometimes you can score an extension on your benefit period if you’re enrolled in school. You can continue to collect benefits while taking classes.

Q: If you happen to get offered a job, do you need accept it?

A: No. There’s wiggle room here. You do not have to accept any job for which you’re not trained, any job where the hours, pay, safety conditions, or even commute are not industry standard. You can also turn down a job if you are physically unable to do it or if the job offends your religious or moral beliefs.
Stay focused on finding the job you want.

Q: Can you continue to receive unemployment benefits if you find part-time work?

A: Yes, but usually at some kind of reduced rate. However, even while working your part-time gig, you’ll still need to be searching for a full-time job. Working part-time is another way you can extend your drawing period for unemployment benefits.

Q: In addition to your enrolling in school or getting a part-time job, how else can you extend your unemployment benefits?

A: Depending on your state, there might be two programmatic options available: Emergency Unemployment Compensation which can pay you for up to 8 additional months of benefits and the Extended Benefits which can offer you up to 5 months.

Q: Will you be taxed on your unemployment benefits?

A: Yes. However, if you do need the cash flow now – you do not have to have your Federal taxes held back. Though you could choose to have a percentage withheld, just so that you’re not strapped with a hefty tax bill at the end of the year.

Q: You’ve applied for benefits. Now what?

A: Don’t just sit around waiting for the mailman. Instead, be proactive. Set up informational interviews, contact job recruiters, update your resume and online professional profile Linked-In.

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