How to File for Extended Unemployment

As a part of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, high unemployment states can provide up to 13 to 20 weeks of extended unemployment benefits to workers in need. This is in addition to the 20 to 33 weeks offered through regular benefits. Not all states have established eligibility into the program, but the Department of Labor has a weekly notice with update information on which states qualify.

Instructions

1. Determine your state's eligibility. The Department of Labor publishes a weekly report updating the public on which states qualify for funding (see Resources).

2. Determine your eligibility. If you qualified for the initial benefit, then most likely you qualify for extended benefits. However, if you are qualified to file a "new" regular claim in any state, federal law does not permit additional extended benefits.

3. Check your eligibility with the local unemployment office (the office you originally filed the claim with) to confirm Steps 1 and 2. Different states have different requirements so it doesn't hurt to inquire about any additional paperwork you might need to fill out. While officials will tell you to wait for the official notification, it is always better to be proactive. Either way, you will not be eligible until your initial benefits have run out.

4. Continue to file every week or two after your initial contact to let the unemployment office know you are still in need. This is important for documentation should you need to make an appeal on a denied claim.

5. Keep job hunting or find a cost-effective volunteer activity. You can also register for jobs with the state employment office. As in Step 4, this helps to document your need and prove continued eligibility should it be challenged.

References

• National Employment Law Project
• Department of Labor: Extension Trigger Report

Resources

• DOL: Weekly Claims Report