Title: What is Unemployment insurance while you look for work?

> Your state pays unemployment insurance while you look for work. You search for work every week and report any earnings. In most states, starting to run a b

Source: https://pontia.xyz/us/guide/ui-searching/
Checked: 25 September 2026

Keep an incomeJob search required

# What is Unemployment insurance while you look for work?

Your state pays unemployment insurance while you look for work. You search for work every week and report any earnings. In most states, starting to run a business ends your eligibility, so use this time to plan, and ask about Self-Employment Assistance if your state has it.

## The key facts

-   Weekly work search is required; how many contacts depends on your state
-   Report all earnings every week when you certify
-   In most states self-employment means you are not unemployed: Pennsylvania counts the “first positive step”, such as advertising or buying equipment
-   Fraud adds a penalty of at least 15% on top of repaying the overpayment

## What you must do to keep getting it

Job search required

### Job search

On unemployment insurance you must look for work every week, keep a record of your contacts, and report them when you certify. How many contacts depends on your state.

### What you must do to keep getting it

-   Certify every week and report all earnings, including from any side business.
-   In most states, running a business means you are not unemployed. Plan and prepare, but check your state’s rule before you trade: Pennsylvania counts the “first positive step”.
-   If your state runs Self-Employment Assistance, apply BEFORE starting, and keep searching for work until you are accepted in writing.

### If you earn money

Report all earnings every week when you certify. Your state ignores a small amount and then reduces your benefit (see your state’s page); in most states, working in your own business can end your eligibility.

**If you take or turn down a job:** Refusing suitable work can disqualify you from benefits. Only apply for jobs you would take.

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Sources, checked September 25, 2026

-   [careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/UnemploymentBenefits/find-unemployment-benefits.aspx](https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/UnemploymentBenefits/find-unemployment-benefits.aspx)
-   [law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/3306](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/3306)

This guide explains the official rules in plain words. It isn’t advice about your own claim: your adviser decides. Not a government service. Not financial, tax or legal advice.

Cite this page

"What is Unemployment insurance while you look for work?", Pontia, https://pontia.xyz/us/guide/ui-searching/ (updated September 25, 2026)

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Cite as: "What is Unemployment insurance while you look for work?", Pontia, https://pontia.xyz/us/guide/ui-searching/ (updated 25 September 2026)

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