Education and Unemployment

January 7, 2010 11:11 AM

How will taking a Non-degree Graduate course affect my current unemployment benefits?

I am interested in taking a non-degree graduate course at a local University while continuing to look for work. Despite scouring the Illinois Department of Employment site, I could not figure out how this would effect my weekly benefits. Does anyone know or have experience with this?

posted by jsmith78 to Education (3 answers total)

In Texas the question becomes if taking the course would get you off the hook for your required job search activities for the week. Also, in Texas, only the department can tell you the answer to that based on the specific class you plan to take and the impact on whether you will be able still look for work, go to interviews, etc. During the mandatory session I had to attend when I started on UI they actually suggested coursework if it improves your marketability for a job.
posted by birdherder at 11:17 AM on January 7, 2010

In New York it's similar to Texas - it only affects you if it affects your ability to work. If, for example, you are taking an online class that you can attend during the evening (or whatever non-working hours would be if you had a job), NY allows you to do so without affecting your benefits. They only require you to tell them and get permission if you're attending a full-time program that would affect your ability to work. It may be similar in your state, but you may need to call them to find out.
posted by bedhead at 11:58 AM on January 7, 2010

In California, as long as the class is not during the hours of M-F 9am-5pm, you would still qualify for full unemployment benefits.
posted by chez shoes at 12:43 PM on January 7, 2010