Unemployed? Get Ready To Provide Proof You’ve Been Job Hunting

As of June 15, anyone seeking unemployment benefits in Massachusetts will have to show they are actively searching for a job. On Thursday, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that starting the week of June 15 work search requirements will be reinstated.

WWLP/22 News Springfield reports that beginning the week of June 13 through June 19, those applying for unemployment will need to keep a detailed written log of their work search activities.

That means you must complete at least three work search applications per week in order to remain eligible for benefits. Work search activities include looking up job listings, submitting job applications, networking, and registering with a local Mass Hire Career Center.

If necessary, you must also provide proof of applying to the Department of Unemployment Assistance. All areas and divisions of work are in need of workers, however, restaurants have been especially hard hit.

There were a record 200,000 job listings last month according to the state. Governor Charlie Baker said recently that he will lift the State of Emergency on June 15. After that, those applying for unemployment won't be able to cite COVID-related reasons to waive the work search requirements.

The Baker administration said in a statement:

Refusing work because a UI claimant would rather collect more money in unemployment benefits is not reasonable in any circumstances and is considered fraud.

Most residents will still be entitled to receive partial or reduced unemployment benefits even as they do get employed and return to work. That includes the full amount of the $300 weekly stipend offered through the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation package. The FPUC program ends in September.

Please check out all the info at WWLP's website here.