Tips & info

Rehires and reported work refusals can save real dollars

May 2007

Rehires and reported work refusals can save real dollars

May 2007

By offering jobs to former employees claiming benefits, the employer may get a qualified worker while reducing unemployment benefit charges. Also, claimants may be determined ineligible for benefits because "suitable work" was refused without good cause. However, job refusals must be carefully documented.

Here are some suggestions that will help reduce your unemployment cost exposure:

  • Offer work only to claimants eligible for rehire.
  • Contact claimants directly or notify your local unemployment office if you have suitable work available.
  • Document details of job offer, i.e., hours, pay, title, duties, date of offer and, if applicable, reason(s) for refusal. Failure to appear for an interview should also be documented since this action may constitute a refusal of employment if bona fide suitable work was available.
  • Report rehires or documented job refusals to your Claims Consultant immediately. Your Claims Consultant will notify the state agency.

Job Offers under the following circumstances, however, will generally not subject a claimant to a disqualification:

  • Outside usual occupation or field.
  • Claimant not suited to work.
  • Wages are substantially less than the prevailing wage for similar work in the locality.
  • Working conditions are unsafe or hazardous.
  • Relocation of worksite causes unreasonable hardship.
  • Substantial change in work schedule if detrimental to employee.

NOTE: The state will not rule on a job refusal prior to a claim for benefits or during a week when no benefits are claimed.