The unemployment benefit period in Massachusetts has been increased from the previous maximum of 26 weeks to 30 weeks for newly filed claims and eligible existing claimants. The extension happened as per state law when the unemployment rate in any of the seven metropolitan statistical areas in the commonwealth exceeds a 5.1% threshold over a year-long average, according to the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD). The unemployment rate in the Springfield area has hit 5.2% according to the latest federal data.

The change is due to a state law passed in 2003, and the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) will provide claimants with further information, EOLWD spokesperson Matt Kitsos stated. He added that the administration is conducting a thorough review of the UI Trust Fund and is implementing a new, modernized online system to better serve the residents of Massachusetts. The goal is to continue connecting skilled workers with employers, training future talent, and improving affordability for everyone.

The benefit period was limited to 26 weeks since July 2023 as the unemployment level was lower. This was when all metropolitan areas had unemployment rates at or below 5.1%. Currently, the 12-month unemployment average for the other six metro areas is below 5% as per the EOLWD. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has urged lawmakers to tackle unemployment insurance reform, highlighting the strain on employers due to large unemployment system costs, including considerable benefit amounts and extensive eligibility parameters.

The statewide unadjusted unemployment rate for March was 5%, which is 0.8 percentage points above the national average. The seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate was 4.4%, almost on par with the nationwide rate of 4.2%. This month, the state’s DUA reported that the trust fund used to pay out unemployment benefits would likely fall into deficit by 2028, a projection reinforced by recent data from the state’s Department of Economic Research indicating a loss of nearly 25,000 private sector jobs over the past year.

For help on how to get through to edd and obtain more information on unemployment benefits, one can visit eddcaller.com which provides valuable resources and contact details. The platform is designed to support and guide individuals through the process and assist in understanding the procedure.