Spouse unemployment after a PCS move

What it is

Unemployment insurance normally pays you when you lose a job. If you quit on your own, most states deny it. Many states make an exception for the spouse of a servicemember whose transfer makes it unreasonable to keep the job.

How much it pays

Your state sets your weekly amount from your past wages. The U.S. Department of Labor says the first payment generally comes two to three weeks after you file.

How to file, step by step

1. File as soon as you become unemployed. DOL says to contact your state's unemployment insurance program as soon as possible.
2. Apply through your state's unemployment agency. The U.S. Department of Labor page below helps you find it.
3. Tell them you left work because of your spouse's military transfer.
4. Keep your spouse's orders. The rule is about a transfer, so orders are your proof.
5. Use the DOL page below to find the agency for the state where you worked and ask how its military spouse rule works.

Other help while you look for work

• DOL says a military spouse who lost a job or is unemployed because of a spouse's relocation may be eligible for dislocated worker funding through American Job Centers.
• American Job Centers can also help you understand your state's trailing spouse unemployment law and whether you qualify (DOL VETS military spouse fact sheet).

Traps

• Do not assume another state has the same rule. Ask the agency.

Where to call and where to go

Phone

• 1-877-US2-JOBS, U.S. Department of Labor call center. Source: DOL unemployment insurance
• 1-866-237-0275, U.S. Department of Labor, listed for military spouse unemployment questions. Source: DOL VETS military spouse employment
• Military OneSource, 24/7: 800-342-9647. Source: militaryonesource.mil

Official pages

• U.S. DOL: find your state unemployment agency
• U.S. DOL VETS: military spouse employment
• U.S. DOL VETS: military spouses fact sheet