Understanding Unemployment Benefits For Student Jobs On Campus

The short answer to whether college students can get unemployment benefits is that it depends on the state. While federal law applies universally, each state may expand eligibility as it sees fit. Generally, unemployment benefits are available to workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own and are willing, able, and available for full-time work. However, students are often considered unable or unavailable to accept full-time work while enrolled in and attending classes.

Unemployment benefits for students with federal loans

Unemployment benefits are typically available for those who are actively seeking work and are available to work. This can be difficult for students, especially those enrolled full-time, as their studies may prevent them from accepting a job offer. However, students with federal loans who are unemployed may be eligible for an unemployment deferment, allowing them to postpone their loan payments.

Unemployment Benefits for Students

Students who are unemployed may be eligible for unemployment benefits, depending on their state's requirements. To qualify, one must generally meet the work and wage requirements for a set period, usually the first four out of the last five completed calendar quarters before filing an unemployment claim. Some states may require students to demonstrate that their courses do not interfere with their ability and availability to work. For example, in Virginia, students can receive unemployment benefits as long as their school schedule allows them to take a daytime job.

Unemployment Deferment for Federal Loans

Unemployed students with federal loans may be eligible for an unemployment deferment, which allows them to postpone their loan payments for up to 36 months. To qualify, borrowers must be receiving unemployment benefits or working part-time while seeking full-time employment. Additionally, they must submit an application for unemployment deferment to their student loan servicer and provide proof of their eligibility. It is important to note that interest may continue to accrue on the loan balance during the deferment period.

Alternatives for Students with Financial Difficulties

Students who do not qualify for unemployment benefits or unemployment deferment may have other options to manage their finances. They can consider entering vocational training programs that provide an income while they learn new skills. Reviewing expenses and budgeting can also help stretch finances further. Moving back home with parents or selling unnecessary items can also provide temporary financial relief.

State-specific requirements for unemployment benefits

The requirements for receiving unemployment benefits as a student vary depending on the state. While there is no federal unemployment program, the U.S. Department of Labor's unemployment insurance programs provide benefits to eligible workers who have become unemployed through no fault of their own and meet other eligibility requirements. Each state administers a separate unemployment insurance program within the guidelines established by federal law.

California: Currently enrolled students can be eligible for unemployment benefits as long as they are physically able to work, available, actively seeking, and willing to accept a job. They may also qualify for California Training Benefits, which would waive these requirements while the student attends a qualified program. California also offers the Training Opportunities Program, which allows claimants to enroll in an approved educational program while receiving benefits.

Ohio: Claimants must report their participation in educational programs to the unemployment agency. If the claimant was already enrolled in school while employed, they may still be considered available for work. The agency may also approve participation in an agency-approved training course.

Massachusetts: The Training Opportunities Program allows unemployment claimants to enroll in an approved educational program, including internships, vocational schools, and both online and traditional college courses. As long as the recipient meets the educational hour requirements and other program requirements, they can receive benefits without having to search for work.

New Jersey: Full-time students enrolled in at least 12 credit hours at a college or university are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits unless they were already enrolled in school while working. However, those enrolled in an agency-approved training course can claim benefits.

Oregon: The Training Unemployment Insurance program allows workers to claim benefits while taking a short-term approved training course and forgoing work search requirements. In some cases, the program also supports benefits for individuals completing a traditional higher education degree if they are close to program completion (48 or fewer credit hours away).

Virginia: Currently enrolled students can be eligible for unemployment benefits as long as their school schedule does not conflict with their ability to take a daytime job. Benefits may be available for those taking night or weekend classes or engaging in self-directed learning, but not for those attending classes during daytime business hours.

Eligibility for unemployment benefits under federal law

To be eligible for unemployment benefits under federal law, you must meet the requirements set by your state. While unemployment insurance is a federal program, it is managed and distributed by state agencies, meaning that each state has its own policies and requirements for those seeking unemployment benefits.

However, there are some general federal guidelines that must be met to be eligible for unemployment benefits. These include:

• Being unemployed through no fault of your own; you didn't quit or get fired.
• Meeting work and wage requirements for a set period, usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before filing your claim.
• Being available to work and actively looking for work.
• Being able to work, both physically and in terms of your schedule.

Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government provided expanded eligibility for unemployment benefits through the CARES Act. This included providing benefits to self-employed individuals, independent contractors, and "gig economy" employees, as long as their unemployment was connected to the pandemic.

State-specific eligibility criteria for unemployment compensation

• California: Students can be eligible for unemployment benefits as long as they are physically able to work, available, actively seeking, and willing to accept a job. They may also qualify for California Training Benefits, which waives these requirements while the student attends a qualified program.
• Virginia: Students can receive unemployment benefits as long as their school schedule does not conflict with their ability to take a daytime job. For example, students taking night or weekend classes can receive benefits, but those attending classes during daytime business hours cannot.
• Ohio: Students must report their participation in educational programs to the unemployment agency. If a student was already enrolled while employed, they may still be considered available for work.
• Massachusetts: The Training Opportunities Program allows students to enroll in an approved educational program and receive benefits without needing to search for work.
• New Jersey: Full-time students are generally ineligible for unemployment benefits unless they were already enrolled and working. However, those enrolled in an agency-approved training course can claim benefits.
• Oregon: The Training Unemployment Insurance program allows students to claim benefits and forgo work search requirements while taking an approved short-term training course. In some cases, the program supports benefits for those completing a traditional higher education degree if they are close to program completion.

Alternatives to unemployment benefits

Students who lose their jobs may be eligible for unemployment benefits, depending on their state's requirements. However, if you don't qualify for unemployment benefits, there are several alternatives you can consider:

• Emergency funds or grants from your school: Many educational institutions offer emergency funds or grants to students facing unexpected financial difficulties. This can be a great option to help cover essential expenses while you get back on your feet.
• Federal and private student loans: Student loans can provide financial support, but remember that you will be responsible for repaying them after graduation. Be sure to carefully consider the terms and conditions before taking on any loan.
• Work-study programs: Work-study programs allow students to earn money by working part-time, often on campus, in roles that fit their academic schedules. However, note that this income may affect your unemployment eligibility.
• Part-time jobs and gig work: Freelancing, driving for ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft, or delivering food can offer flexibility to balance work and studies. These options provide income and help build valuable work experience for your future career.
• Vocational training programs: Consider enrolling in a vocational training program that pays you while you're in school. This way, you can earn an income and gain new skills simultaneously.
• Financial management: Review your spending and cut down on non-essential expenses. If possible, consider moving back home with your parents to save on living costs. You could also sell any items you no longer need to generate extra cash.
• Defer student loan payments: If you have federal loans, you may be eligible for in-school deferment, provided you're enrolled at least half-time. Even if you've graduated or dropped below half-time enrollment, you may still qualify for an unemployment deferment through the Department of Education. Keep in mind that interest may continue to accrue on your loan balances.

Frequently asked questions