You’re collecting expanded unemployment compensation checks, and the federal government just deposited a $1,200 stimulus check into your bank account. Right now, you’re making as much or more than when you were working full-time. Who could blame you for wondering why you should even consider returning to work when you’re safe and financially comfortable staying at home?
Remember, however, that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Consider these reasons for going back:
You could lose your unemployment benefits if your employer calls you back
When you file for unemployment benefits, you agree to keep looking for a job, and you are required to accept suitable employment when it’s offered. If you don’t, you might no longer be eligible for unemployment benefits. The CARES Act allows workers to turn down a job offer for a coronavirus-related reason, such as being ill themselves or caring for a sick family member. However, it doesn’t allow you to turn down a job offer because you are concerned about going back to work.
These benefits won’t last very long
Expanded unemployment benefits are good for up to four months. While this provides a safety net during the COVID-19 emergency, the benefits will eventually run out, and you’ll be left with only state unemployment benefits. That might not be enough to live on, and you might need that full-time work to survive.
If you turn down a job offer now, you may regret it later
The Congressional Budget Office projects some sobering figures: unemployment at 14 percent during the second quarter and the probability those figures will rise to between 16 and 20 percent by the start of summer.
While these projections already paint a dismal picture, there is also a chance that many skilled workers will still be looking for jobs come summer and fall. The bottom line: If you get a job offer today, this might be an excellent time to take it.
You could lose your employer-sponsored benefits
Many workers have been laid off but have still retained their healthcare benefits. Those benefits will be terminated if your employer offers your job back, and you refuse to return.
You might still have access to COBRA benefits, but this will prove to be very expensive since your employer will probably not cover any portion of the premiums. You could be stuck with hundreds of dollars in monthly premiums.
Working provides other benefits
One of the hardest aspects of the pandemic has been the loss of control most people felt. Having a job returns some control, along with feelings of pride and accomplishment that were often missing.
When you’re working, you keep your skills fresh and your professional network growing for when you start looking for a better or higher-paying job.
Are you ready to find that better job?
Talk to us! We are a staffing agency that gets results! Contact the professionals at Select Staff, a top recruitment agency in Dallas, Texas, and throughout the state.
