Can you turn down a job for extremely low pay in California and still receive unemployment benefits?
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Can you turn down a job for extremely low pay in California and still receive unemployment benefits?
I’ve been working with a staffing service for the past 2 years, but my most recent assignment is about to end and I will file for unemployment. I’m currently making $18/hr. If my staffing agency offers me a job for much less (ie: $12/hr), do I have to take it? Will I lose unemployment benefits if I turn it down? I’m certainly willing and want to work, but I need to make close to what I’ve been making, as I’m just getting by to begin with. This is in California. Thank you.
Asked on July 1, 2009 under Employment Labor Law, California
Answers:
N. K., Member, Iowa and Illinois Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 15 years ago | Contributor
It's difficult to answer your question since the decision on whether you qualify for unemployment benefits is decided on a case-by-case basis, with consideration given to your unique situation.
The California EDD has a benefit determination guide on its website discussing how decisions are made for different situations. Here is the direct link to decisions reached when an employee quits due to dissatisfaction with wages: http://www.edd.ca.gov/UIBDG/Voluntary_Quit_VQ_500.htm#Wages.
Perhaps this will assist you.
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