Unemployed or Underemployed Workers

Who are they? Unemployed workers are people who are jobless, looking for work, and available for work. Unemployed workers include people who were previously employed but lost their positions because of company layoffs or plant closures. Underemployed workers have part-time, temporary, intermittent, or low-wage work that does not provide enough income to live stably.

How do they use local workforce systems? Both unemployed and underemployed workers may seek assistance from local workforce system programs and services to find new employment or training opportunities. They may also seek temporary financial assistance to reduce the negative effects of lost wages. American Job Centers and agencies administering unemployment insurance programs can assist these workers with job and training program searches, and education and training providers, such as community colleges and community-based organizations, help train people for in-demand occupations with sustainable wages. The US Department of Labor's CareerOneStop website has resources which can help unemployed and underemployed workers locate American Job Centers, get unemployment help, and explore careers, education, and training options.