Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions are among those often asked by employees at-risk of being involved in a downsizing.
If you have other questions you would like answered, you can Ask RWAC. We will get an answer back to you as soon as possible.
How can I apply for unemployment benefits?
When can I apply for unemployment benefits?
How long do unemployment benefits last?
How much will I receive from my unemployment benefits?
How much is my current health insurance if I purchase it through COBRA?
What is the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and how does it help me?
How can I access my benefits through WIA?
Where are One-Stop Centers located?
How can I get a listing of state jobs that are currently posted?
I want to go back to school. What should I do?
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How can I apply for unemployment benefits?
Application for unemployment benefits can be made online or by phone. It is generally recommended that you use phone registration. The number is 1-877-OHIOJOB (644-6562)
The online registration information is located at http://unemployment.ohio.gov/unemployed_workers.html
When can I apply for unemployment benefits?
You should file your application as soon as you become unemployed. Your claim will begin the Sunday of the calendar week in which it is filed.
How long do unemployment benefits last?
Benefits normally last up to 26 weeks. At this time, there are no extensions available.
How much will I receive from my unemployment benefits?
That depends on your income before lay-off and your number of dependents. It can also be impacted by money you receive if you withdraw your funds from PERS or other sources. The most recent information about benefit levels is available at http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us/forms/file.asp?id=49983 (Note - this requires Acrobat Reader).
How much is my current health insurance if I purchase it through COBRA?
COBRA rates change on an annual basis. The rates as of July 1, 2007 can be found here. (Note - this requires Acrobat Reader).
What is the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and how does it help me?
The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) is federal legislation designed to provide assistance for individuals seeking employment, as well as provide other services.
As a job seeker, there are two types of WIA benefits available:
BASIC SERVICES are available to anyone at any time. These may include resume development, interviewing skills training, access to job postings, job fairs, group training classes, or other services offered by a local WIA provider.
INTENSIVE SERVICES are available only to displaced employees. They can include tuition assistance, job training or training in specific skills, or other benefits designed to enhance employability.
Training and other support available through WIA provides job seekers opportunities to enhance or expand their skills. There is no charge to individuals to utilize WIA services. The respresent a return of your tax dollars at a time when they are most needed.
How can I access my benefits through WIA?
WIA benefits can be accessed at WIA centers across the country. In Ohio, they are located at the One-Stop centers in each county operated through a partnership between the state county Job and Family Services. A clickable map of these centers is at: http://www.ohioworkforce411.gov/localboard/onestopmap.stm
Each county establishes the eligibility requirements for the various WIA benefits, programs and training offered, and caps on tuition assistance. It is important to check with your local WIA provider before planning any specific training program, as each maintain approved provider and program listings.
WIA benefits can be accessed at your local One-Stop center, any other One-Stop center in the state, or any WIA office in the country. Since each county establishes their own parameters for WIA benefits and programs, there is significant variation between counties in the levels of service offered. Because of this, you are encouraged to check with the various WIA providers in your area to determine the benefits and programs they offer.
Where are One-Stop Centers located?
One-Stop Centers are located in each county. A clickable map of these centers is at: http://www.ohioworkforce411.gov/localboard/onestopmap.stm
Call your local WIA office to determine their hours of operation and current schedule of programs being offered.
How can I get a listing of state jobs that are currently posted?
The Labor Market and Recruitment office of the Department of Administrative Services maintains a listing of currently posted state jobs. This list is updated throughout the day. Their web site containing the listings is: http://stateofohiojobs.com/applicant/index.asp This list can be searched by agency, county, or job title.
Applications for most jobs can be filed on-line. Information about the application process and the on-line application are at http://das.ohio.gov/hrd//applinfo.html
I want to go back to school. What should I do?
Begin by contacting your One-Stop provider to find out the career fields for which they offer training and their approved training providers list. Check to be certain the school you want to attend is on this approved list. If you are an OCSEA member, you should also check to see if the school is on the UET approved provider list, so you can utilize available benefits from them as well.
As with all their services, the approved training and provider lists vary between counties and One-Stop providers. Be sure the training and school you want are listed ny the One-Stop of your choice.