Out of the country when unemployment runs out. Can I file for euc benefits by phone? (collect, claim)

[JohnJ82]

I'll be leaving the country in a few weeks to look for work as an English teacher in Southeast Asia. During my REA interview, I asked about this specifically, and was told that it is acceptable as long as I continue to keep logs.

Unfortunately, after already purchasing my (very expensive) plane tickets, I realized that my unemployment is due to end right in the middle of my trip.

Will I be able to file for EUC benefits over the phone?

If I'm randomly selected for another REA interview, and I'm unable to make it, will they really cut me off from unemployment for good?

If so, is it possible/reasonable to not collect for a few weeks, in order to delay the end of my benefits?


Any help would be much appreciated.

Edit: I forgot to mention that I am on Massachusetts unemployment.

[Ariadne22]

My comments in bold:

Originally Posted by JohnJ82

I'll be leaving the country in a few weeks to look for work as an English teacher in Southeast Asia. During my REA interview, I asked about this specifically, and was told that it is acceptable as long as I continue to keep logs.

Unfortunately, after already purchasing my (very expensive) plane tickets, I realized that my unemployment is due to end right in the middle of my trip.

Will I be able to file for EUC benefits over the phone?

Yes, you can file over the phone - unless MA's systems identify the call as overseas and prevent the claim.

If I'm randomly selected for another REA interview, and I'm unable to make it, will they really cut me off from unemployment for good?

Not for good. It is highly unlikely you will be selected for another REA review in your absence. Yes, if you don't attend, your benefits will stop until you call MA, schedule and attend another REA. You don't lose them permanently, just have to endure the hassle of another interview/REA before the claim is reopened. Even if you reschedule an REA, some states stop paying.

If so, is it possible/reasonable to not collect for a few weeks, in order to delay the end of my benefits?

This is a better idea, in my opinion. When you return to the country, call MA to reopen the claim.

In spite of what MA told you, if you claim benefits in a way that indicates you are doing so outside the country, MA's fraud systems may not pay, anyway, and will close the claim until you are interviewed again.

Edit: I forgot to mention that I am on Massachusetts unemployment.

[JohnJ82]

Thanks so much for the information. I guess I'll just hold off on claiming until I get home :-)