History
New legislation was passed in 2009 that allowed those who are collecting unemployment to extend those benefits past the usual allowable period. These additional benefits can add an additional thirteen weeks to your existing eligibility period. It is important to note, not every person who collected unemployment will be eligible for extended unemployment benefits. Some states where unemployment rates are high may also provide benefits that extend beyond the federal program.
Contact
The easiest way to determine if you are eligible to get extended unemployment benefits is to contact the state agency that handles inquiries and claims. A website has been set up for every person to
easily identify the agency that is responsible in their state. America's Service Locator allows you to select your location and you will be presented with the agency information.
Filing a claim
If you have an existing unemployment claim open, the agency who is handling your claim will notify you if you are eligible to receive extended benefits. If you have exhausted your benefits prior to the extended benefits period being open, you should contact your State Unemployment Insurance Agency to determine if you are eligible to re-apply for extended unemployment benefits.
Requirements
Your obligations under the extended unemployment benefits period will remain the same. These obligations include (but may not necessarily be limited to):
- Filing weekly claim forms
- Actively looking for work
- Reporting any/all income
- Reporting job seeking activities
Not everyone is aware of it, but if your state participates in the specialized program for entrepreneurs, you may be eligible to collect unemployment benefits (and extended benefits) without actively seeking full time employment. These benefits were created to give unemployed workers an opportunity to start small businesses. As of February 2, 2010, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Pennsylvania offer these programs. You can find out more by contacting them directly if you are eligible for unemployment benefits or for extended unemployment benefits.
Being unemployed is extremely stressful. Watching the days tick away on a calendar knowing your unemployment benefits are going to expire adds to that stress. When you are faced with the possibility of your unemployment benefits expiring, take proactive steps to get extended unemployment benefits. The added weeks will give you the added comfort that you can continue to look for a job and continue meeting your financial needs.
