Maryland Department of Labor
Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning
http://www.labor.maryland.gov/employment
LARRY HOGAN, GOVERNOR • BOYD K. RUTHERFORD, LT. GOVERNOR • TIFFANY ROBINSON, SECRETARY
PHONE: 410-767-2999 • INTERNET: www.labor.maryland.gov
Revised 10/2019
An Employment Benefits
Guide for the Worker in
Transition
Overview …………………………………………………………. Page 3
Unemployment Insurance Benefits Information …………………. Page 4
Continuing Your Health Benefits Coverage …………………….. Page 12
Job Search Assistance …………………………………………... Page 13
Overview of the Division of Workforce Development
and Adult Learning .…………………………………….….. Page 14
American Job Centers …………………………………………... Page 15
Job Center Locations …………………………………………… Page 16
Jobseeker/Employment Services ………………………………… Page 17
Registered Apprenticeships ……………………………………… Page 18
Veteran Services …………………………………………………. Page 19
Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC) ………… Page 20
Trade Impacted Workers ………………………………………... Page 21
Trade Readjustment Allowances (TRA) ………………………… Page 23
Job Search Allowance ……………………………………………. Page 24
Relocation Allowance ……………………………………………. Page 25
Alternative/Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance ……... Page 26
Trade Program Benefits and Services Chart …………….…….... Page 27
Table of Contents
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Any individual who loses his/her job or has received notice that he/she will lose his/her job as part of a
facility closure or layoff is considered to be a “dislocated worker.” Title I of the Federal Workforce Innova-
tion and Opportunity Act (WIOA) extends a wide range of services to dislocated workers.
In Maryland, there is an extensive network of service providers in place to assist the dislocated worker
during his or her transition. Maryland’s Dislocation Services Unit works closely with this network, which
includes American Job Centers (operated through a partnership of the Division of Workforce Development
and Adult Learning in the Department of Labor (Labor), www.labor.maryland.gov) and Local Workforce
Development Boards in Maryland’s twelve (12) Local Workforce Development Areas.
The WIOA Dislocated Worker legislation recommends early intervention on behalf of the worker. In
an ideal situation, service provision is initiated before the employee’s last day of work. Orientation sessions
are held on-site to inform workers of the range of services as well as where, when, and how to access those
services, often relying on the Unemployment Insurance system for financial support while receiving
program services.
Overview
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
This booklet has been prepared in an attempt to briefly discuss these services
and the agencies that provide them.
The following is general information about Unemployment Benefits. Each individual’s situation is dif-
ferent. As a result, you are strongly encouraged to directly contact the Division of Unemployment Insurance,
part of the Maryland Department of Labor, regarding your specific situation. For questions, please call 410-
949-0022, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
SOLICITUD DE BENEFICIOS DEL DESEMPLEO PARA LA POBLACIÓN DE HABLE HISPANA
301-313-8000
What Is Unemployment Insurance?
Unemployment insurance is an employer-funded insurance program providing monetary benefits to per-
sons who are unemployed through no fault of their own, able to work, available for work, looking for work,
and willing to accept a job for which they are qualified. The money for unemployment insurance benefits
comes from revenue paid by employers. No deductions are made from your paychecks to pay for
unemployment insurance in Maryland.
How You Receive Unemployment Insurance Benefit – Prepaid Debit Card
Claims for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits will be reviewed by the Division of Unemployment In-
surance (DUI). If you are determined to be eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits, you will re-
ceive your benefits on a Visa debit card issued by Bank of America. You will receive the Maryland UI debit
card directly from Bank of America once your eligibility has been approved. If you qualify for and receive
unemployment insurance benefits, you will have the safety and convenience of a debit card. Detailed instruc-
tions on how to use the debit card will be included when you receive the card from Bank of America. This
method of payment is the default for all new claims. Once benefits have been deposited onto the debit card,
you may request that the benefits be transferred to your personal bank account. Bank of America will include
specific instructions for choosing this option when you receive the UI debit card package. You have the op-
tion to request that a paper check be mailed to your address instead of using the debit card. If you choose to
receive a paper check, please keep in mind that it will take an additional few days to receive your benefit pay-
ments. For more information, please refer to our web page at: bit.ly/uidebitcard.
Unemployment Insurance Benefits Information
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Required Enrollment with Maryland’s American Job Center System
Free comprehensive job search assistance from your local American Job Center is an important part of your
unemployment insurance benefits package. Under the Maryland Unemployment Insurance Law, you must
register in Maryland’s American Job Center System within five (5) days of filing an initial claim. You
must register either (1) in person by visiting your nearest American Job Center, or (2) via the internet at
https://mwejobs.maryland.gov. An updated list of American Job Career Centers is included in this pamphlet
and also may be found at http://www.labor.maryland.gov
How Do I File For Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Unemployment insurance business is conducted by telephone or by Internet. Claims can be filed by
telephone through a Claim Center, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in English or
Spanish, or by Internet, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at www.mdunemployment.com.
Claim Centers
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
College Park
301-313-8000
1-877-293-4125 (toll free in MD only)
Calvert County
Charles County
Montgomery County
Prince George’s County
St. Mary’s County
Cumberland
301-723-2000
1-877-293-4125 (toll free in MD only)
Allegany County
Frederick County
Garrett County
Washington County
Salisbury
410-334-6800
1-877-293-4125 (toll free in MD only)
Caroline County
Dorchester County
Kent County
Queen Anne’s County
Somerset County
Talbot County
Wicomico County
Worcester County
Towson
410-853-1600
1-877-293-4125 (toll free in MD only)
Baltimore City
Anne Arundel County
Baltimore County
Carroll County
Cecil County
Harford County
Howard County
How Do I Know If I Am Eligible For Unemployment Insurance?
Eligibility for unemployment insurance cannot be determined until you actually file a claim. To be
monetarily eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits, you must have worked and had sufficient
earnings during the “base period” and be separated from your employment through no fault of your own. The
“base period” is a 12-month period made up of the first four quarters of the last five totally completed
calendar quarters prior to the date you file your claim. For example, if you file your claim in:
Month/Year Your Base Period is the Prior
January, February or March October 1st to September 30th
April, May or June January 1st to December 31st
July, August or September April 1st to March 31st
October, November or December July 1st to June 30th
Note: If you are not eligible for any unemployment insurance benefits using the standard base period
outlined above, you may become eligible based on an alternate base period. The alternate base period uses the
most recently completed four quarters of wages. If your standard base period is monetarily ineligible and you
think you may be eligible using your most recently completed four quarters of wages, you must call a Claim
Center to request alternate base period.
Unemployment insurance benefits range from a weekly benefit amount (WBA) of $50 per week to a
WBA of $430 per week. Your WBA is determined by your wages during your base period. Your claim is
effective on the Sunday immediately prior to the date that you file for benefits and remains in effect for one
year. You can receive up to 26 weeks total of unemployment insurance benefits if you meet all the
requirements of the Maryland Unemployment Insurance Law. During periods of extremely high
unemployment, a special federally-funded program may be in effect that provides additional weeks of
benefits.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
You will receive a Determination of Monetary Eligibility in the mail that will list all of your base period
employment and the earnings that were reported by your employer as paid to you during this period. If any
employer or any wage amounts are incorrect, you must contact your claim center within 15 days and file a
wage protest. After opening your claim, you will be mailed a pamphlet with instructions on how to file your
continuing claims (telecert/webcert) and what your responsibilities are as a claimant.
Am I Eligible for the Dependents’ Allowance Benefit?
In addition to your WBA, you may be eligible for dependents’ allowances of $8 per dependent child
under 16 years of age for up to 5 dependent children. The maximum benefit amount, including your
dependents’ allowances, is $430 per week. You are required to provide your dependents’ social security
numbers to claim the dependents’ allowances. Only one parent can claim a dependent during any one year
period.
What are My Responsibilities as an Unemployment Insurance Claimant?
After you file for unemployment insurance benefits, you will receive a pamphlet entitled “What You Should
Know about Unemployment Insurance in Maryland.” Read the pamphlet carefully to understand the
requirements of the Maryland Unemployment Insurance Law. When you file for unemployment insurance
benefits, you must:
Be able and available for work;
Make an active search for full-time work (at least 3 job contact per week);
File timely weekly claims;
Report all wages earned each week, if any;
Report all monies received (for example, vacation, severance, or pension payments);
Be available and/or contact the Division of Unemployment Insurance when asked to do so;
Report to the American Job Center when required to do so; and
Accept suitable work as defined by law.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
The Reemployment Exchange (REX) Module
The Reemployment Exchange (REX) Module is designed to allow you to enter your job contacts directly
into the system, eliminating the need for manual record keeping. REX will also provide you with a reemploy-
ment strategy to assist you in quickly becoming re-employed. You must record your job contacts in the
Reemployment Exchange (REX) Module. You may do so by registering in the Maryland Workforce
Exchange (MWE) System at https://mwejobs.maryland.gov.
The information submitted into REX will be retained as a permanent record of your job contacts which are
subject to verification by the Division of Unemployment Insurance. Failure to perform and record at least
three (3) valid job contacts per week will result in a denial of benefit payments, unless exempted from the
work search.
If you are unable to enter job contacts into REX, you must keep a weekly written record of job contacts
for at least one year from the date the job contact was made.
How will Receipt of My Vacation Pay/Holiday Pay/Special Payments Affect My Unemployment
Insurance?
The law requires that you inform the Agency if you have received, are receiving, or will receive vacation
pay, holiday pay, or special payments. You must report this information when you file your initial claim, or
if you receive any of these payments at a later time, you must report them by calling a Claim Center. Do not
report vacation, holiday pay, or special payments as earnings when filing your continued claim. Your benefits
may be reduced or denied, depending on the circumstances. If you fail to report these payments, you may be
overpaid. This overpayment must be repaid before any future benefits will be paid. However, vacation pay is
not deductible from Unemployment Insurance benefits unless you are on a vacation shutdown or a temporary
layoff with a return to work date.
How will Receipt of Severance Payments Affect My Unemployment Insurance?
The law requires that you inform the Agency if you have received, are receiving, or will receive
severance payments. You must report this information when you file your initial claim, or if you receive
severance payments at a later time, you must report them by calling a Claim Center. Do not report severance
payments as wages when filing your continued claim.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
All severance payments are deductible from unemployment insurance benefits for the number of
weeks based on your last weekly pay rate. Once your severance payments have been exhausted, if you are
otherwise eligible, your benefit payments will resume. If you fail to report these payments, you may be
overpaid. This overpayment must be repaid before any future benefits will be paid.
What If I Receive A Pension?
The law requires you to inform the Division of Unemployment Insurance if you have received a lump
sum or monthly pension. Any pension paid by an employer for whom you worked in your Base Period may
be deductible from your benefits. If you receive your pension in a lump sum, it will not affect payment of
benefits. However, if you are receiving a monthly pension, a deduction will be made from your weekly benefit
amount. The deduction amount is based on the gross amount of the pension and whether you contributed to the
pension. If the calculated weekly deduction is equal to or more than your weekly benefit amount, you will be
disqualified from receipt of benefits.
What about My Social Security Benefits?
Social Security Benefits are not deductible from unemployment insurance benefits.
Can I File For Benefits If I Am Working Part-Time?
If you are working all the hours that your employer has available for you and your gross pay is still less
than your weekly benefit amount plus any dependent’s allowance, you may be eligible for partial benefits.
Are Unemployment Insurance Benefits Taxable?
Yes. Any unemployment insurance benefits that you receive must be reported as part of your gross
income for both State and Federal purposes. The Division of Unemployment Insurance will send you an IRS
form 1099-G showing the total amount of unemployment insurance benefits paid to you during the previous
year. You may choose to have Maryland taxes, Federal taxes, both, or neither deducted from your
unemployment insurance amount.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
What If I Have A Question About My Unemployment Insurance Claim?
All questions and informational telephone calls, such as finding out the status of your unemployment
claim or check, should be directed to the Claimant Information Service numbers below. Your Telecert is
also filed by calling these numbers:
Calling from the Baltimore area or out-of state
410-949-0022
Calling from Maryland, but outside of the Baltimore area
1-800-827-4839
*Those that are hearing impaired may use the Maryland Relay by dialing 711*
Helpful Resources
“What You Should Know about Unemployment Insurance in Maryland,” a publication of the Maryland
Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, will be mailed to you when you file an initial claim.
“Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)” about Maryland Unemployment Insurance can be found at
www.mdunemployment.com.
Reminder: These general guidelines are provided for informational purposes. Each individual’s case
and circumstances are different, and we encourage you to contact the appropriate Unemployment Office
should you have specific questions regarding your personal unemployment benefits.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
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Dislocated Worker Contacts Outside of Maryland
Workers displaced from work with a Maryland employer qualify for services in Maryland. In addition,
should they reside outside Maryland, they may qualify for similar services in their state of residence. The
following offices may be contacted for additional information:
Delaware Department of Labor
www.delawareworks.com
District of Columbia Department of Employment Services
www.does.dc.gov
Pennsylvania Department of Labor
www.dli.state.pa.us
Virginia Employment Commission
www.vec.virginia.gov
Workforce West Virginia
www.workforcewv.org
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May I continue my health benefits?
The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) gives workers and their families who
lose their health benefits the right to choose to continue group health benefits provided by their group health
plan for limited periods of time under certain circumstances, such as voluntary or involuntary job loss,
reduction in the hours worked, transition between jobs, death, divorce, and other life events. Qualified
individuals may be required to pay the entire premium for coverage up to 102 percent of the cost to the plan.
COBRA generally requires that group health plans sponsored by employers with 20 or more employees
in the prior year offer employees and their families the opportunity for a temporary extension of health
coverage (called continuation coverage) in certain instances where coverage under the plan would otherwise
end.
COBRA outlines how employees and family members may elect continuation coverage. It also requires
employers and plans to provide notice.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Continuing Your Health Benefits Coverage
For more general information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor web page at
www.dol.gov/dol/topic/health-plans/cobra.htm.
You may also contact the Maryland Health Connection at
www.marylandhealthconnection.gov
Or call 1-855-642-8572
To find in-person help, visit HCAMaryland.org
or call 410-500-4710 or 855-288-3667 (toll free)
What other kinds of job search assistance are available to me?
You may be asking yourself a variety of questions . . .
WHO is going to hire me?
WHAT do I need to know to properly approach a job interview?
WHERE can I develop other job skills that fit the needs of employers?
WHEN can I utilize services that might be available?
HOW do I prepare a résumé?
The answers to these questions are available from the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s
(DLLR) American Job Centers, operated in partnership with your Local Workforce Development
Board. American Job Centers offer a variety of resources that will assist job seekers in their search for
gainful employment. They provide job seekers with virtually unlimited resources of employment
opportunities through their network of American Job Centers across the state. Each of the American Job
Centers offers the Maryland Workforce Exchange, a web-based program that lets you manage
your own career account using individual on-line folders and links you to job search resources and partner
agencies that can assist you in your job search. In addition to the job search function, the Maryland Workforce
Exchange offers several links to other job sites such as state sites, employer sites and private agencies.
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MDJobsNow.com
mwejobs.maryland.gov
Job Search Assistance
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Overview of the Division of Workforce Development and
Adult Learning
The Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning, within the Maryland Department of Labor,
is the State’s main workforce development entity. The Division oversees the
operation of Maryland’s 30 American Job Centers located in each county of the State. At these American Job
Centers, Marylanders actively participate in interview workshops as well as receive information on job training
programs and résumé assistance.
The Division also oversees the functioning of Maryland’s job bank: the Maryland Workforce Exchange.
The Maryland Workforce Exchange is an online site where jobseekers can upload their résumé. It is also a
powerful tool for Maryland’s businesses. The website connects with popular job search sites like
Monster.com. The Division also just launched its MWEJOBS Mobile App that is now available on the Apple
iTunes App Store and Google Play.
Also within the Division are the Office of Adult Education and Literacy Services and the Office of
Correctional Education. These programs were transferred from the Maryland State Department of Education
to the Maryland Department of Labor in 2009. The Office of Adult Education oversees the administration of
the GED® program and the National External Diploma Program. Both are ways in which adult learners can
obtain their Maryland High School diploma. The Office of Correctional Education oversees the administration
of both academic and occupational education opportunities at Maryland’s
Correctional Institutions. Academic services are provided to inmates, spanning from special education to high
school equivalency.
Additionally, the Division oversees workforce programs for New Americans and veterans. It also oversees
the processing of a number of Federal and State tax credits. For more information about the Division, you can
visit the Department’s website or call (410)767-2173.
Maryland’s American Job Center system, a proud partner of the American Job Center network, is an equal
opportunity employer/program committed to diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis
of race, religion, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability. Please contact a local Ameri-
can Job Center to make arrangements for auxiliary aids, interpreter services, and reasonable accommodations.
For job seekers, the American Job Centers are nationally recognized leaders for using state-of-the-art tech-
nologies to match people with jobs and jobs with people. American Job Centers have resource areas equipped
with Internet access and a variety of job search resource materials. To further assist you in your job search,
they offer free faxing, copying, and telephone services. A staff of experienced workforce professionals is
available to assist you. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
The American Job Centers partner with other State agencies, local service areas, businesses, community
colleges, and local governments to make employment information and opportunities a “One-Stop” effort.
Automated services can be accessed on the Maryland Workforce Exchange, available at the American Job
Centers or via the Internet at https://mwejobs.maryland.gov, or on America’s Job Bank at www.ajb.org.
The following services to meet your employment needs are provided at no cost to you:
Access the largest single source of computerized listings of public and private job openings in
Maryland and throughout the country;
Use Maryland’s largest résumé job-matching database;
Register and search for jobs of interest in your Local Area or across the nation;
Look for a job; post, update, and maintain your résumé on the Internet;
Explore information about training and educational opportunities or information about apprentice-
ships and financial aid programs;
Access Federal, State, and County listings;
Computer workstations with word processing and résumé software to prepare résumés and cover
letters;
Job referral and placement services;
A variety of job search workshops that include:
Successful Job Search Strategies,
Interviewing Skills, and
Résumé Preparation; and
Labor Market Information: reliable and up-to date information on job qualifications, occupation
trends, wages ,and industry projects.
A complete listing of American Job Centers and contact information for the Centers may be found on the next
page (page 16) as well as on the Labor website at http://www.labor.maryland.gov/county.
American Job Centers
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MARYLAND AMERICAN JOB CENTERS (30 Centers)
(E) = Aqui se habla español (11) (ELA) = English Classes (7) (AE) = Adult Ed. Classes (1) (FS) = Full Service Center (21) (S) = Satellite Center (8)
Page 16
ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
(FS) Linthicum American Job Center
613 Global Way
Linthicum, MD 21090
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-424-3240 / Fax: 410-508-2002
(S) Fort Meade Outreach Center
(For Military and Spouses)
Building 4432
Fort Meade, MD 20755
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-674-5240 / Fax: 410-672-3543
(S) BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport
BWI Airport American Job Center
P.O. Box 46024
BWI Airport, MD 21240
Hours: 11 AM – 4 PM
Phone: 410-684-6838
BALTIMORE CITY
(FS) Eastside American Job Center
3001 E. Madison Street
Baltimore, MD 21205
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, M-W, F
8:30 AM - 7 PM, Th
Phone: 410-396-9030 / Fax: 410-396-4063
(FS) Northwest American Job Center
(Re-entry Center) Mondawmin Mall
2401 Liberty Heights Avenue, Suite 302
Baltimore, MD 21215
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, M, W-F
8:30 AM - 7 PM, T
Phone: 410-396-7873 / Fax: 410-523-0970
BALTIMORE COUNTY
(E) (ESOL) (FS) Baltimore County Workforce
Development Center at Eastpoint
7930 Eastern Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21224
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Computer lab 4 PM)
Phone: 410-288-9050 / Fax: 410-288-9260
(FS) Baltimore County Workforce Development
Center at Liberty Center
3637 Offutt Road
Randallstown, MD 21133
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Computer Lab 4 PM)
Phone: 410-887-8912 / Fax: 410-496-3136
(FS) Baltimore County Workforce
Development Center at Hunt Valley
11101 McCormick Road, Suite 102Hunt Valley, MD
21031
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Computer Lab 4 PM)
Phone: 410-887-7940 / Fax: 410-329-1317
FREDERICK COUNTY
(FS) Frederick County American Job Center
200 Monroe Ave., Ste. 1
Frederick, MD 21701
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 301-600-2255 / Fax: 301-600-2906
LOWER SHORE
(E) (ESOL) (AE) (FS) SOMERSET, WICOMICO,
WORCESTER COUNTIES
One Stop Job Market
31901 Tri-County Way, Suite 111
Salisbury, MD 21804
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-341-8533 / Fax: 410-334-3454
MID-MARYLAND
CARROLL COUNTY
(E) (ESOL) (FS) Business & Employment
Resource Center
224 N. Center Street
Westminster, MD 21157
Hours: 8 AM – 4:30 PM, M-TH
8 AM-2 PM F
Phone: 410-386-2820 / Fax: 410-876-2977
HOWARD COUNTY
(E) (FS) Columbia Workforce Center
7161 Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite D
Columbia, MD 21046
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-290-2600 / Fax: 410-312-0834
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
(E) (ESOL) (FS) WorkSource Montgomery
American Job Center
Westfield Shopping Center
South Office Building
11002 Veirs Mill Road
Wheaton, MD 20902
Hours: 8:30 AM - 5 PM, M & W
8:30 AM - 6 PM, T & Th
8:30 AM - 3 PM, F
Phone: 301-929-4350 / Fax: 301-929-4383
(E) (FS) WorkSource Germantown
American Job Center
12900 Middlebrook Road
Germantown, MD 20874
Hours: 8:30 AM - 5 PM, M-Th
8:30 AM-3 PM, F
Phone: 240-406-5485 / Fax: 301-685-5569
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY
(E) (ESOL) (FS)
Prince George’s American Job Center
1801 McCormick Drive, Suite 120
Largo, MD 20774
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-Th
8 AM - 2 PM, F
Phone: 301-618-8425 / Fax: 301-386-5533
(E) (S) Laurel Regional Workforce Center
312 Marshall Avenue, 6
th
Floor
Laurel, MD 20707
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-Th
8 AM - 2 PM, F
Phone: 301-362-9708 / Fax: 301-362-9719
Professional Outplacement Assistance Center
(POAC)
312 Marshall Avenue, 6
th
Floor
Laurel, MD 20707
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-Th; 8 AM - 2 PM, F
Phone: 301-362-1646/ Fax : 301-362-9719
SOUTHERN MARYLAND
(E) (FS) CHARLES COUNTY
Southern MD JobSource
175 Post Office Road
Waldorf, MD 20602
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 301-645-8712 / Fax: 301-645-8713
SAINT MARY'S COUNTY
(S) Southern MD JobSource
21795-F N. Shangri-La Drive
Lexington Park, MD 20653
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 301-844-6404 / Fax: 240-237-8384
SUSQUEHANNA REGION
CECIL COUNTY
(FS) Susquehanna Workforce Center - Elkton
1275 West Pulaski Hwy
Elkton, MD 21921
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-996-0550 / Fax: 410-996-0555
HARFORD COUNTY
(FS) Susquehanna Workforce Center – Bel Air
Mary Risteau Building
2 South Bond Street, Suite 204
Bel Air, MD 21014
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-836-4603 / Fax: 410-836-4640
(FS) Susquehanna Workforce Center – Universi-
ty Center
1201 Technology Drive, Room 107
Aberdeen, MD 21001
Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-272-5400 / 443-327-8763
UPPER SHORE
CAROLINE COUNTY
(S) Caroline County American Job Center
300 Market Street, Suite 201
P.O. Box 400
Denton, MD 21629
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M &Th
Phone: 410-819-4549 / Fax: 410-819-4503
DORCHESTER COUNTY
(FS) Dorchester County American Job Center
627A Race Street
Cambridge, MD 21613
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, T-F
Phone: 410-901-4250 / Fax: 410-221-1817
KENT COUNTY
(FS) Kent County American Job Center
115A Lynchburg Street
Chestertown, MD 21620
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M & F
Phone: 410-778-3525 / Fax: 410-778-3527
QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY
(S) Queen Anne’s County American Job Center
125 Comet Drive
Centreville, MD 21617
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, T
Phone: 410-758-8044 / Fax: 410-758-8113
(E) (ESOL) (FS) TALBOT COUNTY
Talbot County American Job Center
301 Bay Street, Suite 301
Easton, MD 21601
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 410-822-3030 / Fax: 410-820-9966
WESTERN MARYLAND
ALLEGANY COUNTY
(FS) Allegany County American Job Center
McMullen Building
138 Baltimore Street, Suite 102
Cumberland, MD 21502
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-F
Phone: 301-777-1221 / Fax: 301-784-1702
GARRETT COUNTY
(S) Garret County American Job Center -
Western Maryland Consortium
Garrett College Southern Outreach Center
14 N. 8th Street
Oakland, MD 21550
Phone: 301-334-8136 or 8137
Fax: 301-334-1400
(E) (FS) WASHINGTON COUNTY
Washington County American Job Center
14 N. Potomac Street, Suite 100
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, M-W, F
8 AM - 3 PM, Th
Phone: 301-393-8200 / Fax: 301-791-4673
Www.labor.maryland.gov
mwejobs.maryland.gov
MDJobsNow.com
“Maryland’s American Job Center system, a
proud partner of the American Job Center
network, is an equal opportunity employer/
program committed to diversity in the
workplace. We do not discriminate on the
basis of race, religion, color, sex, age,
sexual orientation, national origin, or disabil-
ity. Please contact a local American Job
Center to make arrangements for auxiliary
aids, interpreter services, and reasonable
accommodations.”
The American Job Centers are the heart of Maryland’s workforce system. Each has valuable tools and
resources to assist in your search for gainful employment, and the Job Center staff can help you secure a
new or better job, identify and select a career path, access skills training, and get the information you need
to succeed in today’s economy.
Whether you are unemployed, underemployed, considering a career change, or simply trying to upgrade
your skills, the Maryland American Job Centers offer information sessions, various tools, and resources to
give you the competitive edge needed to be successful in your job search. Employment services include the
following:
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Jobseeker/Employment Services
Computer Classes
Job Specific Training Programs
Professional Development Seminars
Workshops
Career Counseling
Computer Lab Access
Dislocated Worker Services
Early Intervention (EI) Program
Ex-Offender Services
Interviewing Techniques
Internet Access
Job Matching and Referral
Job Search
Labor Market information
Maryland Workforce Exchange Virtual One Stop
(MWE-VOS)
Services for New Americans
Office Equipment Use (Copiers, Fax, and Phone)
Professional Outplacement Assistance Center
(POAC)
Résumé Help
Skills Assessments
Training
Including information on Pell Grants
Unemployment Insurance Assistance
Veteran Services
Including information on the G.I. Bill
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Registered Apprenticeships
Registered Apprenticeships are jobs where workers “earn and learn.” While working on the job, employees
receive one-on-one full-time training from a skilled craftsperson as well as related classroom instruction. An
apprentice is “sponsored” by an employer or association and is paid according to a progressive wage scale.
You will earn a wage, while receiving industry credentials without incurring tuition debt. You will learn trans-
ferable skills to advance your career and gain job satisfaction by performing meaningful work. As a Registered
Apprentice, you are paid on a progressive wage scale. The more experience and training you gain as an appren-
tice, the more pay you will receive.
Anyone 18 years or older who meets the qualifications can be a registered apprentice. However, some pro-
grams allow individuals 16 years and older with parental permission. You must be physically able to perform
required tasks and have access to transportation. Most, but not all, Registered Apprenticeship programs require
a Maryland high school diploma by means of high school graduation or successful completion of the GED®
Test or National External Diploma Program®. You may have to pass specific tests in math and English. Indi-
vidual program requirements may vary.
Individuals interested in learning more about apprenticeship programs available in Maryland can refer to the
Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Locator. The Locator includes only active apprenticeship opportunities,
ensuring job seekers find just those programs seeking to hire apprentices, and employers locate only those
sponsors that are currently working within their industry. The scope of information available in the locator
includes: program name, counties where the program is available, type of program, occupation, industry,
program contact information, job description, length of program, and minimum age for candidates.
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To visit the Apprenticeship Locator, please go to:
http://www.labor.maryland.gov/employment/appr/apprsearch.shtml
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
DWDAL Veteran Services
Priority of Service at Maryland’s American Job Centers
This means that veterans and eligible spouses, who meet the eligibility requirement, will be given access to
employment, training, and placement services at an earlier time or before persons who are not eligible for
Priority of Service.
One-On-One Assistance
Veterans’ Services at Maryland’s American Job Centers
American Job Centers offer a variety of services to assist veterans, transitioning military personnel, and
other qualified individuals. Veterans and other eligible persons may also receive one-on-one assistance. Local
Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) develop hiring opportunities within the local areas by con-
tacting businesses, Federal agencies and contractors, and employer associations to encourage the hiring and
advancement of qualified veterans. Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) staff provide specialized
intensive employment assistance to eligible veterans who have special employment and training needs. The
DVOPs assist individuals to overcome barriers that prevent them from gaining meaningful employment.
DVOPs apply a case management approach and access a broad network of providers and resources to assist
eligible veterans with their employment goals.
A list of American Job Centers can be found on side two of this flyer and is on Maryland Department of
labor’s website at:
http://labor.maryland.gov/ employment/veteranservices.shtml
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Veteran Services
An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC)
www.dllr.state.md.us/poac
The Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC) is a service offered by the Maryland Department of
Labor's Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning. POAC provides assistance to individuals who
are in the professional, executive, technical, managerial, and/or scientific occupations
The centerpiece of the POAC program is the staff's unique combination of skills, experiences and backgrounds.
The POAC staff reflects the needs of the professional, executive, technical, managerial and scientific workers
the program serves. The staff consists of professionals experienced in working with thousands of job seekers
from a wide range of professional occupations. The program provides job seekers with a level of support that is
only available through few private outplacement services costing thousands of dollars. POAC, as with all the
services of our agency, provides high quality services that are free of cost to Maryland residents.
Services Available
JumpStart – a two-day workshop which addresses the re-employment needs of our targeted population
Aptitude and Interest Assessment Assistance
Résumé Writing Assistance by Certified Professional Résumé Writers
Navigating the Federal Employment Process by Certified Trainers
Interview Training
Computer Lab
Peer Training
Individualized Career Counseling
Networking and Accountability Groups
E-mail Career Management Announcement Services
For more information and to find out how you can benefit from POAC’s services, contact them at:
POAC
312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 600, Laurel, MD 20707
Phone: 301-362-1646 Fax: 301-362-9719
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Trade Impacted Workers
THE TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE (TAA) PROGRAM
TAA is a federal entitlement program established under the Trade Act of 1974, amended by the Trade and
Globalization Adjustment Assistance Act of 2009. The TAA Program provides aid to workers who lose their
jobs or whose hours of work and wages are reduced as a result of increased imports or production transfers
abroad. The federal TAA program includes job training and benefits. To receive TAA benefits, you must
have lost a job covered by a trade certification issued by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). If you think
you qualify and are interested, our American Job Centers’ office staff can discuss the following benefits with
you:
Job Search Assistance—improves job-hunting skills.
Job Search Allowance—pays travel expenses for job interviews outside your Local Area.
Relocation Allowance—pays most of the moving expenses for you and your family if you get a job
outside your Local Area.
Training (Vocational and Remedial)—pays for training for a new occupation.
Trade Readjustment Allowances (TRA)—pays you benefits while you are in approved full-time
training.
Alternative/Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance (ATAA/RTAA)—supplements your wages
if you are at least age 50 and return to work earning less in wages in your new job than you did in your
previous job.
How to Request TAA Training
Get started at your local American Job Center. (Refer to the list on page 14).
To request TAA training, you should:
Contact a career counselor at a local American Job Center immediately. Your counselor must
approve your training plan BEFORE you enter training if you expect TAA to pay for it. This process may
take several weeks.
Select an occupation and begin a reemployment plan with your career counselor.
Find a training program and training provider that match your needs and meet all of the TAA require-
ments.
Meet all of the school and program entrance requirements.
***Your training programs can include required remedial training, such as English
As a second language, Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and required
prerequisite training.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Develop a curriculum plan with a school adviser that includes required courses by semester, starting and ending
dates, and costs.
Give the career counselor a list of required books and supplies with estimated costs, so the counselor can submit
for approval.
It is your responsibility to remain in contact with your counselor to notify them of any changes in your phone
number, address, or training status. (For example: Drop or add a class)
TAA pays training costs only after your training program is approved. TAA does not pay for training you
took before qualifying for TAA. You may participate in only one TAA training program per trade certifica-
tion. Trade will only pay for those classes that are directly related to your Individual Employment Plan (IEP)
and are required elements to your program relevant to your degree/certification. Additionally, the program
must include everything to make you job ready for your selected occupation.
After training starts, you must:
Attend TAA approved training classes regularly.
Provide your career counselor with progress reports as scheduled.
Achieve the anticipated training benchmarks, make satisfactory progress, and maintain good academic standing.
Get your career counselor’s approval before making any changes to your program or courses.
Notify your career counselor if you become employed.
For more detailed information on the Trade Program, please view the
Maryland Trade Adjustment Assistance Reauthorization Act Video:
http://www.dllr.maryland.gov/employment/taa.shtml (Scroll to bottom of page)
Or
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=29&v=nWoYGEw8ZC0
NOTE: This handbook is an overview of the federal Trade
Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program, as amended. It may not cover
everything in the revised Trade Act.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Trade Readjustment Allowances (TRA)
Basic TRA
TRA are weekly benefits that may be paid after you run out of regular and extended Unemployment
Insurance benefits (UI). To qualify for TRA allowances, you must:
1) Be laid off due to lack of work by a Trade Act certified company.
2) At the time of your first qualifying layoff, have worked for the adversely affected employer at least
26 of the last 52 weeks.
3) Be entitled to, and have exhausted all rights to , UI benefits.
4) If not enrolled in training, have the training requirement waived for one of the following reasons:
health, training not available, or enrollment not available in a reasonable timeframe. (See #5 be-
low)
5) Be enrolled in an approved training program by:
The end of the allowable time after the certification was signed (refer to page 24),
The end of the allowable time of your most recent qualifying separation, or
The training requirement is waived prior to the deadline listed in the chart on page 24.
Additional TRA
To be eligible for Additional TRA you MUST be attending a Trade Act approved training program on a
full time basis, as defined by the training institution.
Additional TRA starts immediately after exhaustion of Basic TRA OR the 2 year basic TRA completion
eligibility period ends, whichever comes first.
Completion TRA
Workers whose training extends beyond the specified period may receive up to 13 more weeks of TRA,
if eligible.
To file a TRA claim, please call 410-767-2534 or 410-767-2630.
Note: You cannot be paid TRA for breaks in training that are more than 30 days.
***IMPORTANT***
Please refer to the chart in the back of this manual for the specific
rules regarding the certified petition that pertains to you.
An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Job Search Allowance
Job Search Allowance Benefits
Pay for up to 90% of reasonable costs for expenses incurred in order to travel to an interview that are
not covered by the new employer
Interviews must be outside of the normal commuting distance
Maximum amount of $1,250.00
May cover the cost of more than one interview
Job Search Allowances Rules
To qualify for job search and/or relocation allowances, you must:
Be covered by a DOL trade certification
Visit your local American Job Center (AJC) and work with a Trade Adjustment Assistance case
manager
Additional Rules on Job Search Allowances:
Submit a written request (Form MD-861, “Request for Job Search Allowance”) BEFORE each job search
trip
Make your written request no later than 425 days after the date of your trade certification or after your most
recent trade-affected layoff, whichever is later, or no later than 182 days* after completing TAA-approved
training
Have at least one legitimate job interview with someone with hiring authority in the area of the job search
trip
Keep your receipts from the job search trip and fill out your daily worksheet or itinerary
For more details, contact your local American Job Center before you begin moving.
*Rules may vary according to your petition number.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
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Relocation Allowance
Relocation Allowances Benefits
Cover up to 90% of allowable costs for moving not covered by new employer in order
to accept new employment
New employment must be outside of normal commuting area
May include a Lump Sum payment of up to $1,250.00
Relocation Allowances Rules
To qualify for job search and/or relocation allowances, you must:
Be covered by a DOL trade certification
Visit your local American Job Center (AJC) and work with a Trade Adjustment Assistance case
manager
Additional Rules on Relocation Allowances:
Must have written proof from the company of the job offer and company contact information
Job must be suitable, long-term employment
Submit Form ETA-860 for relocation allowances BEFORE you begin the move.
Submit your written request no later than 425 days after the date of your petition certification or after your
most recent total layoff, whichever is later, OR no later than 182 days* after completing TAA-approved
training
Submit at least two written estimates
TAA does not pay for moving expenses paid by your employer or others
TAA pays to move only your household goods and personal property as defined in federal regulations
For more details, contact your local American Job Center before you begin moving.
*Rules may vary according to your petition number.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
Alternative/Re-employment Trade Adjustment Assistance
(ATAA/RTAA)
RTAA provides assistance to eligible Trade affected workers aged 50 or older who obtain new employment
that pays less than their Trade affected employment but not more than $50,000 per year. RTAA benefits can
be paid for up to two years from the earlier of exhaustion of unemployment benefits or date of re-employment
OR until the individual receives $10,000 in benefits, whichever comes first.
Qualified Worker:
1. Must file a TRA claim and receive an eligibility determination from the Reemployment and Trade
Unit (RTU). To file a TRA claim, please call 410-767-2534 or 410-767-2630.
2. Must be at least 50 years of age at the time of reemployment.
3. Must be reemployed full-time as defined by the state or be re-employed part-time (more than 20
hours per week) and be in full-time TAA approved training.
4. Cannot return to employment at the firm from which the worker was separated.
5. Cannot earn more than $50,000 in the new employment.
RTAA Benefits:
1. RTAA pays up to 50% of the difference between the worker’s wages at time of qualifying separation
and the worker’s wages from new employment.
2. RTAA benefits may be paid until the worker has received a total of $10,000 OR the eligibility period
has expired OR until the worker’s reemployment income is expected to reach the $50,000 annual
limit, whichever comes first.
RTAA Eligibility Period:
1. Workers who HAVE NOT received TRA:
a. HAVE a 2-year period starting at the earlier of
i. The date on which the worker exhausts all right to unemployment insurance based on
separation from the TAA-approved employer or
ii. Reemployment.
2. Workers who HAVE received TRA and HAVE a 2-year period beginning with the date of reemploy-
ment, reduced by the number of weeks the worker received TRA.
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An Employment Benefits Guide for the Worker in Transition
2009 Law Benefits
Petitions TA-W-70,000-
79,999
2011 Law Benefits
Petitions TA-W-81,000-
84,999
2015 Law Benefits
Petitions TA-W-90,000
and above
Skill assessment, career
counseling, supportive
services, information on
training, and more.
Skill assessment, career
counseling, supportive
services, information on
training, and more.
Skill assessment, career
counseling, supportive
services, information on
training, and more.
Employment and Case
Management Services
Up to 156 weeks of full time
or part time training.
Up to 130 weeks of full time
or part time training.
Up to 130 weeks of full time
or part time training.
Training
Up to 156 weeks of cash
payments for workers en-
rolled in full time training
within 26 weeks of their
trade-related layoff or certi-
fication, whichever is later.
Up to 130 weeks of cash
payments for workers en-
rolled in full time training
within 26 weeks of their
trade-related layoff or certi-
fication, whichever is later.
Up to 130 weeks of cash
payments for workers en-
rolled in full time training
within 26 weeks of their
trade-related layoff or certi-
fication, whichever is later.
Trade Readjustment
Allowances
52 weeks UI/Basic TRA
78 weeks Additional TRA
26 weeks Remedial TRA
52 weeks UI/Basic TRA
65 weeks Additional TRA
13 weeks Remedial TRA
52 weeks UI/Basic TRA
65 weeks Additional TRA
13 weeks Remedial TRA
Breakdown of the
Trade Readjustment
Allowances
A wage subsidy for up to
2 years that is available to
workers age 50 or over who
get employed at a reduced
salary.
A wage subsidy for up to
2 years that is available to
workers age 50 or over who
get employed at a reduced
salary.
A wage subsidy for up to
2 years that is available to
workers age 50 or over who
get employed at a reduced
salary.
Reemployment Trade
Adjustment Assistance*
For costs of a job search out-
side your Local Area.
Assistance with 90% of the
costs of a job search outside
your Local Area.
Assistance with 90% of the
costs of a job search outside
your Local Area.
Job Search Allowance*
For costs of relocating to a
job outside your Local Area.
Assistance with 90% of the
costs of relocating to a job
outside your Local Area.
Assistance with 90% of the
costs of relocating to a job
outside your Local Area.
Relocation Allowance*
Trade Adjustment Assistance
BENEFITS AND SERVICES
*LIMITS APPLY
