You may be eligible for a federal unemployment extension in Arkansas if you are currently receiving unemployment benefits and are still having trouble finding a job. Unemployment extensions can be immensely helpful if the job market has not improved and your employment benefits are scheduled to end.
- Learn About Requesting an Unemployment Benefits Extension in Arkansas
- How to Get an Unemployment Extension in Arkansas
- After Filing Your Arkansas Unemployment Benefits Extension Request
In 1971, Arkansas created an Extended Benefits Program, which allows job seekers to receive an unemployment benefits extension when unemployment rates are particularly high.
In general, there is no limit on how long you can extend your benefits as long as you continue to meet the weekly eligibility requirements.
Arkansas Unemployment Resources
Learn About Requesting an Unemployment Benefits Extension in Arkansas
In 1971, the unemployment compensation extension program known as Extended Benefits was enacted to allow unemployed workers to collect benefits if they met the eligibility requirements. In Arkansas, where unemployed individuals can only receive up to 25 weeks of benefits, filing for an AR unemployment extension may be necessary for some people, especially those who work in declining industries.
If granted an unemployment benefits extension, a worker will continue to receive a weekly amount that is equal to his or her current unemployment benefits. The Arkansas DWS office offers the Extended Benefits (EB) program depending on the height of the state unemployment rate. EB is only available during times of high state unemployment.
At times, the federal or state governments establish an unemployment benefits extension program. For instance, the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program temporarily gave qualified workers additional weeks of unemployment payment in 2008. And in 2020, the federal government initiated the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program.
How to Get an Unemployment Extension in Arkansas
Before filing for an unemployment extension, applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the eligibility requirements first. In order to receive an unemployment compensation extension, a worker must:
- Be unemployed for a week or more.
- Be physically and mentally capable of performing work.
- Make an effort to find employment on a regular basis.
- Be free of any disqualifications.
- Not be involved in a labor dispute.
Most likely, you will not be eligible for an unemployment extension if you were terminated for conduct or performance-related reasons or if you voluntarily resigned. As with regular unemployment, you must have been let go due to no fault of your own. Also, you are allowed to work part-time as long as you meet certain requirements and report your earnings to the state.
Concerning how to get an unemployment extension, you will also need to provide certain documents and information. Before you begin the process, be sure that you have any documents related to your work history on hand, as well as proof of citizenship and your PIN number.
In Arkansas, you can file for an extension online, in person or by calling the state DWS office. If you need to take further action in regard to your extension request, you will be contacted by a representative from the office. You can also print the necessary forms and send them to your local office.
You will also need to have an understandable reason for requesting an unemployment benefits extension ready. The state has the right to verify and check any information that you submit, and if any untruths or unusual details are detected, you will be required to verify them with official documentation.
This is especially true when it comes to filing for an extension, and more than likely, the office will want to know why you have not been able to find employment in 25 weeks. Keep close records of your job contacts, and remain fully honest when providing the office with this information.
If you provide inaccurate information about your job search or history, you could be charged with unemployment fraud. Fraud is a serious crime, and when it involves the state or federal government, there is the threat of incarceration.
After Filing Your Arkansas Unemployment Benefits Extension Request
Once all the necessary paperwork is completed, applicants can send it to the Arkansas DWS office. It is important to send the unemployment compensation extension application and other paperwork as quickly as possible so that you can start receiving your extended benefits promptly.
If your extension is granted, you will receive an approval letter in the mail. Then, the only thing left to do is to continue filing for unemployment benefits on a weekly basis. You will still have the opportunity to decide if you want your funds deposited onto a debit card or directly into your bank account.
Last Updated: February 28, 2023