Overview (as of 5/24/2021)

Effective June 15, 2021, given that COVID-19 emergency measures will be lifted, work search requirements will be reinstated for anyone who requests unemployment benefits after that date. This requirement applies to UI claimants receiving Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) and those on Extended Benefits (EB). Regular UI claimants will not be able to cite COVID-related reasons to waive work search requirements and must accept suitable employment, if offered. The fastest way to file a claim is to apply for unemployment benefits online. If you need help filing your unemployment claim, please use the button below to contact the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Individuals who fill out and submit the form below will be placed on a list to receive a telephone call from the DUA. *Filling out the form is not filing a claim.*

Most claimants will be entitled to continue to receive partial or reduced UI benefits and the full amount of the special COVID-related $300 weekly stipend offered through Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program even as they return to employment. Most claimants will be entitled to continue to receive partial or reduced UI benefits and the full amount of the special COVID-related $300 weekly stipend offered through Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program even as they return to employment. The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program will end in the first week in September.

Requirements necessary to maintain eligibility for UI benefits:

• Beginning with the benefit week of June 13, 2021 through June 19, 2021 claimants must attest each week that they are making at least three work-search activities per week.
• Proof must be provided of work search activity through a detailed, written log.
• Claimants may also be called upon to attend a Career Center related activity.
• Claimants must keep proof of their work search documents for 1 year after they stop requesting benefits.

Claimants who need assistance looking for their next job are encouraged to contact their local MassHire Career Center.