Unemployment benefits while going back to school to increase my employment opportunities

by Marin Rebollero

(Texas)

I was laid off in June of 2004, but I had my own business so I did not apply for unemployment. But now my business has died and I’m not doing anything. I would like to go to school can I get some help.

Hi Marin,

Unemployment benefits are available to those with qualifying wages in “covered employment”. The wages also need to be in your “base period”. For these reasons I don’t think UI benefits will be of help.

But here’s some links to explore for alternative types of help for advancing career opportunities, funding and choosing the right school for you.

http://www.doleta.gov/

http://www.dol.gov/dol/grants2.htm

http://www.careervoyages.gov/

http://online.onetcenter.org/