What are unemployment training benefits available through NYS Department of Labor?
I've been on unemployment for about 6 weeks now and keep hearing people mention training benefits but I'm totally confused about what these actually are. My job search isn't going great and I'm wondering if there's some kind of program through NYS Department of Labor that helps with getting new skills while still collecting UI? I tried looking on the my.ny.gov website but it's so confusing with all the different programs listed. Can someone explain what unemployment training benefits actually include and how you apply for them? I'm worried I'm missing out on something that could help me get back to work faster.
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James Maki
There are several training programs available through NYS Department of Labor while you're collecting unemployment. The main one is called Training Benefits (TB) which allows you to attend approved training programs and still receive your weekly UI benefits without having to do the usual job search requirements. You can also get help with tuition costs through the Trade Adjustment Assistance program if your job loss was due to foreign trade. To apply, you need to contact your local Career Center and they'll help you find approved training providers.
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Kayla Morgan
•This is really helpful! Do you know if there's a time limit on how long the training can last? And do I need to apply before my regular unemployment runs out?
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Jasmine Hancock
i did a medical assistant program through this last year - they paid for most of the tuition and i didn't have to look for work while in school. totally worth it but you gotta get approved first and not all schools qualify
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Cole Roush
•That's great to hear a success story! The key is finding a training program that's on NYS Department of Labor's approved list. They usually prioritize programs that lead to in-demand occupations in your local area. The application process can take a few weeks, so don't wait too long if you're interested.
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Scarlett Forster
I tried to get into one of these programs six months ago and it was such a nightmare dealing with NYS Department of Labor. They kept asking for more documentation and then when I finally got approved the program was full. The whole system is designed to make you give up honestly.
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Arnav Bengali
•That's so frustrating! I had trouble getting through to someone at NYS Department of Labor about training programs too. If you're still struggling to reach them by phone, I used a service called Claimyr that helped me get connected to an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that explains how it works. Made the whole process way less stressful.
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Sayid Hassan
Just to add - there's also something called WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding that can help with training costs. It's separate from regular unemployment but you can sometimes combine them. Your local workforce development office would know more about what's available in your area.
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Kayla Morgan
•Thanks everyone! Sounds like I need to contact my local Career Center to get started. Hopefully they can explain all these different programs better than the website does.
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