Relocating to a different state in hopes of finding new opportunities is often a great choice. It gives you a chance at a new, fresh start and hopefully, a leg in a long lasting career. Unfortunately relocating doesn’t always ensure employment, and it isn’t uncommon for people to find themselves in the same unemployment state as they were back home.
To decrease the risk of this occurring, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research on the area you’re moving to, your industry and the unemployment rates as a whole to ensure a move that makes you feel comfortable and confident. However, if you still find yourself in a situation where you’ve relocated and are unable to gain employment, you have some options. With this quick-reference guide, you can find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about unemployment benefits, state laws and eligibility.
Will I Still Have My Unemployment Benefits if I Relocate?
Determining whether or not you will retain your current unemployment benefits depends on where you’re moving.
If you’re moving within the same state, this is generally not a problem. All you have to do is inform the state agency of your address change, and if done in a timely manner, you should not experience any delay with your payments.
If you’re moving to another state, keeping your unemployment benefits usually isn’t a problem either. However, it may require a bit of time and paperwork in order for the benefits is to be transferred, and a delay in payments is something you want to be prepared for.
Additionally, there are some states that have restrictions as to where you can move if you intend on keeping your unemployment benefits. So, check with your state’s agency for more information specific to your situation.
Now, if you’re moving out of the United States, your unemployment benefits will likely be discontinued. There are very few exceptions where you can move out of the country and still receive unemployment benefits.
Will My Unemployment Benefits Stay the Same if I Relocate?
If you’re moving within the same state, your unemployment benefits will likely stay the same. However, if you’re moving to a different state, the amount of compensation may change, depending on the state you’re relocating to. There may also be a delay of your payments, depending on the paperwork and process your new state requires.
Am I Eligible for Unemployment if I Quit my Job to Relocate?
Determining whether or not you’re eligible for unemployment when you relocate depends on a variety of factors. Typically, if you left your job willingly, you are not eligible for unemployment. However, there are some exceptions but they are few and far between.
Am I Eligible for Unemployment if I Lost My Job Due to Relocating?
If you lost your job, you may very well be eligible for unemployment benefits but it depends on the specific situation. If your job loss was the result of you moving and the company is unable to transfer you to a different location, your eligibility depends on the regulations of the state in which you currently live in.
One major exception to unemployment eligibility is when you are forced to relocate as a result of your military spouse being relocated. This is called the military move, and in this case, you will likely receive military spouse unemployment.
These are only general answers to your unemployment benefit questions. In order to seek personalized advice, you would need to speak with your state’s agency in order to discuss the specifics of your situation.
