UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS LOST DUE TO SCHOOL

We read, and are told, many times that in this economy, go back to school and learn a new trade. But if you are seeking unemployment benefits in New York, that can present a problem. Recently presented with this issue, I discovered cases that held that "Leaving employment to enter college or school or to otherwise improve one's education is without good cause within the meaning of the Unemployment Insurance Law" and that "Refusal of employment with customary hours in the industry because the hours interfere with attendance at night college classes is without good cause regardless of work opportunities at other hours at which claimant previously worked" However, you are eligible for unemployment benefits while you are participating in an “approved” school or job training program under a NYS Department of Labor program called Section 599. If your school or job training program is approved, you do not have to look for work during the time you are enrolled in training and can refuse job offers.