To apply for an unemployment extension, follow these general steps:
- Check Eligibility: You must have exhausted your regular state or federal unemployment benefits and be unemployed through no fault of your own. You also need to be able and available to work and not currently receiving other unemployment benefits
- Understand the Type of Extension: Extensions can come from state Extended Benefits (EB) programs or federal programs like Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC). EB programs activate during periods of high unemployment and typically add 13 weeks of benefits, sometimes more during severe economic distress
- Application Process: In most states, applying for extended benefits is automatic once you exhaust your regular benefits if the program is active. You usually do not need to file a new claim; the state unemployment office will notify you if you qualify
- Continue Weekly Certifications: You must keep filing your weekly or biweekly claims and meet any work search requirements set by your state to maintain eligibility for extended benefits
- Contact Your State Unemployment Office: Because procedures and availability vary by state, visit your state's unemployment insurance agency website or contact them directly for specific instructions and to confirm if extended benefits are currently available
In summary, to apply for an unemployment extension, first confirm eligibility and program availability with your state unemployment office, continue filing regular claims, and follow any additional instructions they provide. Most states handle the extension enrollment automatically once you exhaust regular benefits during qualifying periods
