Unemployed workers may participate in approved training and education programs while continuing to receive Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. These programs are designed to improve job skills and increase employability. However, there are specific eligibility rules that must be met in order for workers to remain eligible for benefits while in training.

When is a training program eligible for approval?
The Department of Labor and Workforce Development may approve a training program for UI benefits if it meets the following conditions:

• Occupations in Demand: Training should focus on occupations with high labor demand, that is, jobs with more vacancies than trained workers. This may include vocational education, remedial education, or both.
• Full-Time Training: The program must be full-time. If training is part-time, the worker must be available and seeking full-time employment to continue receiving UI benefits.
• Approved Suppliers: The training provider must meet state and local requirements to be approved.
• Completion of the Program: The worker must have a reasonable expectation of completing the program.

When is a worker not eligible for UI benefits during training?
Workers cannot receive UI benefits if the training:

• It is on-the-job or employer-funded training.
• It is not approved by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

Additional Benefits During Training (ABT)
Unemployed workers in approved training programs may receive up to an additional 26 weeks of benefits through the Workforce Development Partnership Program (WDP). To qualify for ABT:

• The worker must express interest in training within 60 days of his or her last employment or other specified dates.
• You must work with an employment counselor before enrolling in training.

Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)
This federal program supports workers who lose their jobs due to international trade. It provides training and resources to help them re-enter the labor market.

Training Scholarships for Unemployed Workers
Two scholarship programs, the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (WIOA) and the New Jersey Opportunity Partnership Program, provide funding to cover training costs in New Jersey. Workers can access job counseling to find training programs in high-demand occupations through their local One-Stop Career Center.

Unemployed workers are encouraged to explore and apply for approved training programs that will improve their job skills while still receiving UI benefits. They may also qualify for additional benefits and funding through programs like WDP and WIOA, helping them cover training costs and successfully reenter the workforce.