Benefits Extensions

Unemployment benefits can usually be collected for 26 weeks. These payouts are funded almost entirely at the state level by levying taxes on employers. In tough times like these, however, the system is often extended to help families keep the lights on and stabilize the job market.

That is why last June Congress signed a temporary 13-week extension into law, to be funded at the Federal level. Then again, on November 21st, an additional 7 week extension was added. This was the ninth Federally-funded extension in the last fifty years.

These extended benefits are available to states where the unemployment rate is over 6%.

How It Works
Before applying for extended benefits, you must first exhaust your standard 26 weeks. At that point, the agency that administers your Unemployment Insurance program should provide you with details on how to apply for extension.  For more information on your state’s program, visit your state’s dedicated page on TheCanned.com.