Welcome to the Kentucky Unemployment Insurance program! The Kentucky General Assembly recently made changes to the state’s unemployment insurance program through House Bill Four, after overriding Governor Beshear’s veto.
Are you currently searching for work in Kentucky? If so, it is crucial to understand the importance of keeping track of your work search activities and maintaining all supporting documentation. Not only does this help you stay organized, but it also ensures that you have the necessary evidence in case you need to provide it to the Kentucky unemployment office.
Work Search Activities – The Requirements
One of the key changes is the introduction of new work search requirements. Now, whenever a claimant requests benefits, they must certify that they have completed the necessary work search activities for each week benefits are requested.
Claimants will receive a notification within their claim, acknowledging that they are providing honest and accurate information regarding their work search activities.
Acceptable Work Search Activities
The following activities are considered valid work search activities:
- A formal job application: This includes submitting an online application confirmation, an application email to the employer, a fax application confirmation, a completed paper application signed and dated by the employer or Kentucky Career Center staff, or a screenshot of a text message confirming application submission.
- Job interview: Documentation can include evidence of interview scheduling or a form letter signed by the employer.
- Job shadowing: Employers can provide a form letter detailing the dates and hours of the job shadowing experience.
- Job fair or networking event: Examples of acceptable documentation include a business card from a participating employer or a form letter signed by a participating employer or Kentucky Career Center staff.
- Job search skills workshop or seminar: Documentation can include an email or certificate from Kentucky Career Center staff, a form letter signed by the presenter to certify participation, or screenshots from online participation.
- Employment search program through Kentucky Career Center or partner: Valid documentation can include a registration confirmation, key suite documentation of job referral email, a form letter signed by program staff to certify participation, or screenshots from online participation.
To access a list of frequently asked questions, please visit https://uiclaimsportal.ky.gov/s/.
Why are work search activities and supporting documentation important?
When you file for unemployment benefits in Kentucky, you are required to actively search for suitable employment opportunities. The Kentucky unemployment office may ask for proof of your job search activities at any time during your claim. By maintaining detailed records of your work search efforts, you are better prepared to meet these requirements.
What qualifies as work search activities?
Work search activities can include a variety of actions that demonstrate your commitment to finding employment. Some common examples of qualifying activities include:
- Submitting job applications.
- Attending job fairs or career events.
- Networking with professionals in your industry.
- Participating in job training or workshops.
- Engaging with recruitment agencies.
- Interviewing for potential positions.
Remember, you must actively engage in work search activities on a regular basis in order to remain eligible for unemployment benefits. The Kentucky unemployment office expects you to make a reasonable effort to secure suitable employment.
What supporting documentation should you keep?
In addition to tracking your work search activities, it is essential to maintain all supporting documentation. This can include:
- Copies of job applications or resumes submitted.
- Receipts or confirmation emails from job fairs or career events.
- Business cards or contact information of networking connections.
- Certificates or proof of participation in job training or workshops.
- Emails or correspondence with recruitment agencies.
- Interview confirmation emails or letters.
Having these documents readily available will make it easier for you to provide the necessary evidence when requested by the Kentucky unemployment office. Ensure that you keep them organized and easily accessible, either in electronic or physical form.
How to keep track of work search activities and documentation?
There are various methods you can use to keep track of your work search activities and supporting documentation. Find a system that works best for you, whether it’s a digital spreadsheet, a physical notebook, or specialized apps designed for this purpose.
Make sure to include relevant details such as the date of the activity, the company or organization involved, the position applied for, and any outcomes or follow-up actions. By documenting these details, you have a comprehensive record of your efforts, enabling you to provide accurate and timely information to the Kentucky unemployment office.
When navigating the Kentucky unemployment system, it is crucial to prioritize work search activities and maintain all supporting documentation. By diligently tracking your efforts and keeping organized records, you ensure that you meet the requirements for unemployment benefits and provide the necessary evidence when requested. Remember, actively engaging in a successful job search not only increases your chances of finding suitable employment but also serves as an investment in your future career.
Thank you for your attention, and have a wonderful day!