Learning new skills can help you find a new job.

The Unemployment Insurance program is not the only help available to Oklahoma unemployed workers. Besides the basic UI payments there is a network of services and programs designed to help you get back to work and have the income to survive while you search for employment. This article will look at two of the main programs offered by Oklahoma’s Unemployment State Services: The Disaster Unemployment Assistance and the Oklahoma Employment and Training Program.

The Disaster Unemployment Assistance

The Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is a program available to unemployed self-employed individuals who were working or were about to start work in an area affected by a major disaster and are not eligible for regular UI benefits. This program is not available in all states and is somewhat special in that it provides help to self-employed workers who generally do not enjoy the benefits of an unemployment insurance program.

What Requirements Must I Meet to Qualify for DUA Payments?

You must have lost your work due to a major disaster declared by the President of the United States. You must also make your claim within 30 days of the state of Oklahoma announcing the availability of the program. Also, your wages previous to applying must be similar to the wage requirements for the UI benefits program. Additionally, you must no longer have a job or be unable to reach to your job because of the effects of the disaster.

Employment and Training

Finding a new job can be especially challenging if the career you are trained for is no longer in demand or if you do not have many marketable skills. That is why finding a suitable training program may be the best step you can make to find a new job. The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission provides a wide variety of programs which grant access to many courses in sectors with a high demand for workers.

Financing for these programs comes under the Workforce Investment Act, which grants assistance to eligible participants in the payment of their training fees. Click here for more information on this program and for a list of available courses.

Another service which can increase your chances of finding employment is the Oklahoma ESC workshop program. These workshops provide unemployed workers with help in improving their communication skills, work values, time management, business etiquette and teamwork skills. You will learn what employers are looking for at interviews and how to write a compelling resume.