Does DEO offer free training for certifications after months of job search rejections?

Yes! Florida DEO does offer training assistance through their Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program. You need to visit your local CareerSource Florida center to apply. They offer Individual Training Accounts (ITAs) that can cover approved certification programs in high-demand fields - medical assistant definitely qualifies in most regions. The catch is you need to meet certain eligibility requirements and the program has to be on their approved provider list. Each CareerSource office has different funding levels, so what's available depends partly on your location. Start by registering on EmployFlorida.com and then schedule an appointment with your local CareerSource office.

When I moved to FL two years back, I was in the exact same boat. Except i was trying to get out of retail after 8 years. I went to careersource and honestly it was a mixed bag. They did help me with resume stuff but the training programs had a waitlist in my county. Ended up just taking a crappy warehouse job til something better came along

If you're having a hard time getting work, you might also consider filing for unemployment benefits while you look for new opportunities or pursue training. That could provide some income support during your transition. For the training specifically, go to EmployFlorida.com first and register. Then call your local CareerSource office directly to ask about WIOA funding for training AND the Welfare Transition Program (if you qualify). The process usually involves: 1. Eligibility determination (income verification, work history) 2. Career assessment (they'll evaluate your background and interests) 3. Labor market research (to show the certification leads to employment) 4. Training program selection (from their approved provider list) Don't get discouraged if the first person you talk to isn't helpful. Ask specifically to speak with a WIOA case manager or training coordinator. Sometimes the front desk staff aren't familiar with all programs.

DONT WASTE YOUR TIME!!!! Florida's training programs are SEVERELY UNDERFUNDED! I tried for MONTHS to get into their medical coding program and kept getting the runaround. They make you jump through 50 hoops only to tell you there's no money. The whole system is broken. You're better off looking into Pell Grants for community college or finding a job that offers on-the-job training. Florida DEO is USELESS for actual help.

I've been exactly where you are. Couldn't get my phone calls returned from either CareerSource or DEO for weeks when I was trying to ask about training programs. I was so frustrated until I found Claimyr (claimyr.com). They got me connected to an actual DEO agent who explained all my options and helped me start my WIOA application. They have this demo video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/UzW_hbUy-ss?si=zORd51jeq1GX5Ldj The agent I spoke with was able to tell me exactly which forms to bring to CareerSource and gave me contact info for the training coordinator in my area. Saved me weeks of confusion and waiting.

Have u tried healthcare jobs? Hospitals in my area are hiring ppl w/o certs for patient care tech, unit secretary, etc. They train u on the job and some will pay for further education. Worth checking local hospital websites not just indeed or whatever

To answer your follow-up question - eligibility for unemployment depends on your previous employment. If you worked in another state before moving to Florida, you can file an interstate claim where Florida processes your claim but uses your work history from the previous state. You'll need to have worked during your "base period" (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before filing). As for WIOA training timeline - it varies widely by county. Some areas can approve you in 2-3 weeks while others might take 2-3 months. The programs with the fastest approval are typically those in high-demand fields with documented labor shortages. Medical assisting is generally on that list. One more tip: If you're looking at healthcare certifications, check with local hospitals directly. Many have internal training programs or tuition assistance even for entry-level positions. Same for some larger veterinary chains if you're interested in vet tech work.

my cousin went thru this whole process last year. the trick is to apply for EVERYTHING - unemployment, WIOA training, SNAP benefits, etc. She said the most important part was connecting with a specific case manager at CareerSource who could champion her application. Don't just talk to whoever answers the phone. Ask for the training specialist by name (call ahead to get it).

One other option worth considering - Florida has the "No Fee Identification Card Program" if you're unemployed and need an ID for job seeking. They also have the "Employ Florida Marketplace" which sometimes lists employers willing to hire and train simultaneously. If you've exhausted your job search and can't get into a training program quickly, you might qualify for Reemployment Assistance (RA) benefits while you continue looking. The application process is through CONNECT on the DEO website. You'd need to meet regular work search requirements (5 work searches per week) and claim weeks on time. That could at least provide some income while you navigate the training options or find an employer offering on-the-job training.

I went through a similar struggle about 8 months ago and here's what worked for me. First, definitely apply for the interstate unemployment claim since you worked in Georgia - that money will help while you figure out training. For the WIOA program, I'd suggest calling multiple CareerSource locations in your area. Each office has different funding availability and some are more helpful than others. When I called, I specifically asked to speak with their "WIOA eligibility specialist" rather than general intake. Also, don't overlook community colleges - they often have their own workforce development grants separate from DEO. Valencia College and other state colleges sometimes have quick certification programs (8-16 weeks) with financial aid options. One more thing - if you're open to it, look into apprenticeship programs through the Florida Department of Education. They're in healthcare, IT, and skilled trades. Some are paid apprenticeships where you earn while learning. Much faster than waiting for DEO funding that might never come. Good luck! The system is frustrating but there are ways through it if you keep pushing.