How to Collect Unemployment While Continuing Education
Continuing your education while collecting unemployment is a good idea, especially if you receive training or education in a field that makes you more attractive to potential employers. However, it may affect your unemployment compensation if your classes prevent you from being available to take on work during each week, which is an eligibility requirement for unemployment. Although the requirements vary by state, you usually must disclose your student status during the initial claim and then certify that you're available to work for each week you collect unemployment.
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Instructions
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File your initial claim for unemployment. Access the claims website or number to begin the application. Indicate your school attendance when prompted. Finish the rest of the application questions, and submit your claim.
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Read your Notice of Determination you receive after the state reviews your claim. Note the schedule the state gives you to file your continued claims.
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File your continued claim on the dates the state gave you. Access the website or claims line. Log in with your Social Security number and the personal identification number (PIN) you created during your application. Answer all the questions on the continued claim form to the best of your knowledge, including your availability to accept work during the week or weeks in question due to your school schedule. Submit your claim.
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Access your unemployment compensation on the next payday by accessing your bank account, cashing the check your received in the mail or using your prepaid benefit debit card, depending on the way you set up your compensation payments.
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Tips & Warnings
Some states wave the availability requirement for your insurance claim if you are attending a training program approved by the state. To find out if your state offers this feature and whether your school qualifies for that waiver, contact your state labor office.
The definition "available" in regards to unemployment benefits may vary by state. Always check with your state's labor office for the specific guidelines that pertain to your unemployment plan.
