Massachusetts Work Search Requirements

In order to maintain eligibility for unemployment benefits, you are required to conduct an active search for work each week that you request benefits.

While collecting unemployment benefits, it is your responsibility to keep a detailed written log of your work search activities. You must make at least 3 work searches per week

Examples of work search

• Registering for work and reemployment services with a Career Center
• Completing a job application in person or online with employers who may reasonably be expected to have openings for suitable work
• Mailing a job application and/or resume, as instructed in a public job notice
• Making in-person visits with employers who may reasonably be expected to have openings
• Sending job applications to employers who may reasonably be expected to have openings for suitable work
• Interviewing with potential employers in person or by telephone
• Registering for work with private employment agencies or placement services
• Using the employment resources available at One-Stop Career Centers that may lead directly to obtaining employment, such as:
• Obtaining and using local labor market information
• Participating in skills assessments for occupation matching
• Participating in instructional workshops
• Obtaining and following up on job referrals from the Career Center
• Attending job search seminars, career networking meetings, job fairs, or employment-related workshops that offer instruction in improving individuals' skills for obtaining employment
• Using online job matching systems, including the Massachusetts One-Stop Employment System (MOSES)
• Reporting to the Union Hall, if this is your primary work search method
• Using other job search activities such as reviewing job listings on the internet, newspapers or professional journals, contacting professional associations, networking with colleagues or friends