Colorado Unemployment Extension
At present, residents of Colorado do not qualify for the Colorado unemployment extension; however, that could change soon, so it is important that you understand how the extension plan for benefits works. When the total unemployment rate for a given state exceeds six percent, that state will become eligible for thirteen additional weeks of unemployment compensation. As of January 27, 2009, the rate of unemployment in Colorado did not exceed six percent, which is why Colorado residents are currently not eligible for the increase.
Because the rate of unemployment is calculated using a three-month average, the eligibility status for Colorado unemployment extension could change in the following months, so just because Colorado residents aren’t eligible for the increase one month doesn’t mean that they won’t reach eligibility status another month. Although residents can stay updated by checking with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website, those who do become eligible will be contacted by the department.
Once Colorado residents do qualify under the above guidelines for the Colorado unemployment extension, individuals still have to meet eligibility requirements, although most of these are the same as for regular unemployment benefits. It is important to understand that these benefits are not in addition to the unemployment insurance you may already be receiving, but rather an extension of such benefits. That means you will only become eligible for the Colorado unemployment extension benefits after you have exhausted all your regular unemployment compensation.
Other eligibility requirements include such regular requirements, since you may not be eligible for unemployment compensation in any other state. You may not be working more than 32 hours per week, although you must maintain a willingness and ability to work, and you must be actively seeking work. If you have further questions, the website of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment provides extensive information about the Colorado unemployment extension.