How can I extend unemployment in Connecticut?
If you are wondering, “What can I do to extend unemployment benefits in Connecticut?” bear in mind the following. Typically your unemployment extension will automatically occur once your original 26-week period is completed, so long as you are eligible and your state is experiencing very high statewide unemployment. To ensure that you are eligible for a federal unemployment extension, contact your UI counselor to check the status of your current claim.
You may need to submit a Connecticut unemployment compensation extension application if you are not automatically notified of your eligibility for prolonged benefits. If not notified, you must collect all the documents you originally used in your initial claim, including:
• Your Social Security Number.
• Your full work history.
• The reason for your unemployment (your employer’s previously submitted statement will also be taken into consideration during your application for an extension).
• Proof of the reason why you need the extension.
• Any record of your job search (you should be as honest as possible as the DOL has the right to contact jobs you have applied to in order to confirm that you submitted an application).
Note: Falsifying your job search will result in your UI benefits being terminated and you may be charged with fraud.
You are also able to complete the application for an unemployment compensation extension online, in a process similar to filing an initial claim. Once your request for an unemployment extension has been submitted, you will typically receive your notice of acceptance through the mail. As with the standard benefit period, you must continue to file your weekly claims and seek out employment, or your federal unemployment extension could be interrupted or terminated. Be sure to keep evidence of your job search and records of your weekly claims.
Learn About Unemployment Extension Programs in Connecticut
If your unemployment benefits have run out and you need an unemployment benefits extension, there are two options you must consider, depending on the amount of time you need benefits for. Each option is a federal unemployment extension program and may require you to file an additional application or provide proof of an emergency circumstance.
The unemployment extension program known as Emergency Unemployment Compensation or EUC08 is available in four tiers of extended benefit periods. The EUC tier of benefits you are given will depend on the state’s unemployment rate at the time of the program’s activation and on the case of the applicant.
The tiers of unemployment benefits extension in CT are as follows:
• Tier 1: maximum unemployment extension of 20 weeks
• Tier 2: maximum unemployment extension of 14 weeks
• Tier 3: maximum unemployment extension of 13 weeks
• Tier 4: maximum unemployment extension of six weeks
A second option for receiving an unemployment benefits extension is to file for Emergency Benefits (also known as EB). Emergency benefits can only be granted once you have reached the end of your Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefits. This extension can provide you with an additional 13 weeks of benefits, but just like EUC, the program is only activated when your state experiences overwhelming unemployment numbers. Additionally, if your area has been designated a “depressed zone” by the Department of Labor, you can receive an additional seven weeks of unemployment benefits through EB.
If a CT unemployment benefits extension is not currently available, it does not mean that you cannot receive an extension at a later time, when state unemployment rates are particularly high. During these times, you will need to make sure that you still meet all of the eligibility requirements in order to qualify for an extension. If you have received part-time work, it is important to report this as you may still be eligible to receive an extension with partial benefits.
How to Deal With an Unemployment Benefit Extension Denial in Connecticut
In the event that your request for a Connecticut unemployment extension is denied, you can request an appeal. The appeal process will involve you presenting your case (along with the statement provided by your employer) to a Referee who will then review the case and make a final decision. Your original declined application will not be taken into account at this time, and the decision will be made entirely on the facts presented, which is why you must maintain all evidence of your job search.
