Extended Benefits (EB) Q & A's

Who is Eligible for EB?
You are potentially eligible for EB if you have exhausted Regular UI Benefits & EUC08 Benefits, your benefit year ends after October 5, 2008, and you have no prior disqualifications. The basic EB eligibility requirements are different from those for Regular or EUC08 benefits.

How do I file an EB claim: Apply for Benefits
If you have returned to work and are now unemployed, you must file your claim by calling 1-866-795-8877. If you have questions about the instructions you have received or whether or not you need to reopen your claim, call 1-866-795-8877.

I am having difficulty reaching the ESC Call Center, what should I do?
If you are having difficulty reaching our call center, please contact your nearest ESC Local Office.

What is the first payable week for EB?
The week ending Saturday, October 11, 2008 is the first week EB can be paid.

How do I file my weekly claim?
Weekly certifications may be filed online any day of the week, or you may call 1-888-372-3453 on your assigned day or Wednesday through Saturday.

Are the work search requirements different for this extension?
You must make a sustained and systematic effort to find work. While filing for EB, these requirements have been met when you seek work on at least two different days and make a total of two different contacts with potential employers or an agent or representative of potential employers each week. You must keep a written record of your work search and present the written record to the Commission upon request.

What should I do if I am unable to look for work on 2 different days one week?
Contact your local office to discuss your situation. You may be indefinitely ineligible to receive additional benefits if you file for a week and did not meet this work search requirement.

Must I take any job while filing for EB?
Suitable work for EB claimants whose prospects are 'not good' is defined as any work you are capable of performing if:
1)  the gross weekly pay exceeds your weekly benefit amount;
2)  the pay is equal to the Federal and State minimum wage of $6.55 per hour and;
3)  the offer is in writing and listed with the State employment service.

I have a North Carolina claim but I live in another state. Do I qualify for EB?
Interstate claimants are eligible for EB in the same manner as any other claimant if the State in which you are a resident and North Carolina are both in an EB period. If either state is not in an EB period, two weeks are the maximum.

Can I continue to receive my Trade Readjustment Allowances (TRA) during an EB period?
TRA claimants must file for EB until benefits are exhausted or no longer available.

Other questions?
Call us at 1-866-795-8877 or email esc.ui.euc08@ncmail.net.

NOTE:  Updates to the Q & A's will be posted as they become available.