How Do I Apply for an Extension if My Unemployment Will Expire Next Month?
In the United States, unemployment insurance benefits usually expire after approximately 26 weeks. Many states, following federal guidelines, offer an extension of these benefits during high or extremely high periods of statewide or national unemployment. Although the extension length varies by state, most states typically offering up to 13 or 20 additional weeks. As each state manages its own program, you will need to deal with your specific state’s unemployment insurance agency to discover your eligibility and apply for an extension.
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Instructions
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Check any unopened mail for a letter from your state’s unemployment insurance agency notifying you of your eligibility to apply for an extension. The letter will have specific instructions on applying for extended benefits in your state. If you have the letter, follow the instructions provided to apply. If you don’t have a notification letter, you must take further steps to apply.
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Call your state’s unemployment insurance agency office via the contact number that was given to you for questions about your regular unemployment benefits. If you no longer have that number, locate it through your unemployment office's website or local listing.
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Advise the agency representative who takes your call that you’re aware of a state-approved extension and need instructions on applying. Answer any questions asked by the representative, including, if asked, information about your current job search or training efforts. The representative will advise you of your eligibility status, and the steps to apply if you are eligible.
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Apply as directed if eligible. You must then wait for an approval or denial letter. If you receive an approval letter, the letter will outline your responsibilities during the extended benefits period. Perform whatever task required to receive your benefits, including filing your weekly or biweekly earnings.
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Tips & Warnings
If you’re eligible to receive extended benefits, the potential benefit amount remains the same as the regular weekly benefit amount.
You may also find extended benefits application instructions, or a system to apply for extended benefits, on your state’s unemployment insurance website.
Many unemployed workers who qualified for regular unemployment benefits are not eligible for extended benefits. In addition, if you receive a letter of eligibility and apply, you may find that you do not qualify for the extension.
You must continue to follow your state’s unemployment work requirements while receiving extended benefits. This may involve registering with your state’s employment service, continuing to seek other employment, or participating in certain re-employment programs such as job training.
As of October 2011, federal guidelines permit a maximum of up to 99 weeks of benefits for eligible individuals because of continued high national unemployment. As with a normal extension, your state determines the amount of weeks you’re eligible for within these guidelines.
References
- United States of Department of Labor: State Unemployment Insurance Benefits
- United States Department of Labor: Extended Benefits
- CA.gov: New Developments on Federal Unemployment Extensions (Updated October 4, 2011)
- Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry: Extended Benefits (EB) Frequently Asked Questions
- Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation: DLLR’s Division of Unemployment Insurance - Effective October 2, 2011 - Extended Benefits Program in Maryland
