While you look for a job, you may have the opportunity to do freelance work, odd jobs, or other self-employment work on the side. If you work while getting unemployment benefits, you must report the money you make when filing your weekly certification. Here’s what you will need to know:

1. Report Your Income Weekly

• Always report your income for the week that you worked.  
• Don’t wait until you’re paid to report that income.

2. What to Report

• You must report your gross earnings (this is the total amount you are paid before taxes and other deductions are taken out).
• You must report all forms of income, including:
  • Weekly earnings
  • Retirement
  • Severance
  • Separation pay
  • Wages in lieu of notice
  • Workers' compensation

3. Why Reporting is Important

• If you fail to report income, you will have to repay any overpayment of benefits.

4. Earnings and Benefits

• You can earn up to twenty percent (20%) of your weekly benefit amount without it affecting your benefit amount.  
• If you earn more than this amount, it will lower your weekly benefits.