Can I Switch Part-Time Jobs While Collecting Unemployment Benefits in California?

California is one of nine states to provide partial unemployment insurance benefits for part-time workers.

California employees who maintain part-time employment while receiving unemployment insurance benefits may switch jobs as long as weekly wages do not surpass the weekly benefit amount. The employee must report gross wages earned every week on his unemployment insurance claim form.

History

According to the National Employment Law Project, California is only one of nine states to extend unemployment benefits to part-time employees. A 2001 amendment to the California Unemployment Insurance Code allowed workers who had a history of part-time employment and who wished to continue finding part-time opportunities to collect unemployment benefits.

Reduced Benefits

The Employment Development Department reduces benefits for part-time employees who earn more than $25. If an employee earns less than $100 per week, the amount beyond the first $25 will count toward reducing the weekly benefit. If an employee earns more than $100 per week, the amount after the first 25 percent will count in reducing the benefit.

Considerations

A person who earns more than the weekly benefit amount will not receive benefits for that week. That portion stays in the person's account for future use until the end of the benefit year. If the person accepts a full-time opportunity for two weeks or more, the claim goes into an inactive status.

References

• National Employment Law Project: Part-Time Workers and Unemployment Insurance
• State of California Employment Development Department: Frequently Asked Questions and Helpful Tips for Filing for Unemployment Insurance Benefits in California
• State of California Employment Development Department: A Guide to Benefits and Employment Services