Can I refuse a job offer whilst on JSA

[George & Bill]

Originally Posted by Mag3.14

No, but they don't have to provide financial support while you search for your dream job either. IMO, no job is "beneath" anyone. We all have desirable jobs and certain skills, but when you are collecting support from the government (which I believe should be provided) you shouldn't be able to turn a job down because it doesn't fit your list of requirements.

You're not somebody of low intelligence, so I'm going to be charitable and assume the above post did not entail more that 25 seconds of consideration.

[Mag3.14]

Originally Posted by George & Bill

You're not somebody of low intelligence, so I'm going to be charitable and assume the above post did not entail more that 25 seconds of consideration.

You're right in both cases. Now, here is what the rules are in the US:

In some cases, individuals can turn down a job offer if it does not represent suitable employment. However, that is most often the case when you are first unemployed. After a certain amount of weeks of collecting unemployment or if you are collecting extended unemployment benefits, you will have less flexibility when it comes to turning down jobs.

Unemployment insurance rules require recipients to actively look for jobs and accept suitable work offers. If you turn down a job, prepare to defend your decision to your state unemployment agency. Read and understand your state's rules so that you don't jeopardize your unemployment benefits.


What is suitable and what is not is up for debate. It typically means a job that is close to paying what you're used to, and fits your qualifications.

This in the UK:

Jobseekers who refuse to work could have benefits cut for three years | Society | The Guardian