If you are an unemployed Tennessean seeking work and are not self-employed, there are requirements outlined by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) that you’ll need to follow to be eligible for unemployment benefits.
Work search requirements for non-self-employed individuals often include applying for a specific number of jobs each week and registering with the state’s job service. Some may also require documenting all job search efforts including the jobs applied to, the method of application, and other relevant details.
Starting from September 27, 2020, Tennessee has implemented a work search requirement for individuals receiving unemployment benefits. To remain eligible for these benefits, you are now required to provide information on three potential job contacts each week.
How to fulfill the work search requirement
Follow these steps to complete the weekly certification process:
Step 1: Log in to your jobs4tn.gov account
Navigate to the unemployment services section and select “Weekly Claim Certification”.
Step 2: File your weekly certification
Click on “File your weekly certification” to continue your claim. You will find an explanation of the process on the following page.
Step 3: Acknowledge information on potential fraud and update your contact details
Read and confirm that you understand the information on potential fraud. Make sure your contact information is accurate and up to date.
Step 4: Answer eligibility questions
Respond to the questions regarding your eligibility for benefits.
Step 5: Enter information on your three work searches
Provide details of the potential employers you applied to, contacted, or interviewed with. If you do not have specific titles or names, enter whatever information you have, such as “Human Resources”.
Completing the work search entry
- Enter the title of the potential job and select the most relevant occupation from the dropdown menu.
- Confirm your interest in the job and indicate that you contacted the potential employer.
- Select the date you completed the work search. Remember, it must be within the week you are currently certifying for.
- Additional information, such as application or interview dates, can be entered in the notes section, but it is not required.
- Save the work search entry and continue to enter information for your remaining two work searches.
Important reminder
Failure to complete three work searches will result in the denial of benefits for the corresponding week.
Step 6: Review and confirm your information
Check the answers and information you have entered for accuracy. Confirm that you have read and understood the information regarding potential fraud.
Step 7: Complete the process
Click “Next” to move forward and select “No, I would like to stop” if you have entered at least three work searches and have reviewed and confirmed all the necessary information.
By following these steps, you will successfully meet the work search requirement and maintain your eligibility for unemployment benefits in Tennessee.
Remember that rules and regulations may vary, so always check with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) or visit their information-rich website for the most current, location-specific guidance pertaining to work search requirements for unemployment benefits.