dittidano

I was wondering if a pilot can collect unemployment while sitting on reserve or even flying the line? I know there must be factors to be considered here,however,I think being a regional pilot (FO) it may be possible. I know that substitute teachers in Alaska can collect unemployment benefits and teach throughout the week; the determining factor for a sub teacher is how many hours they work a week. Airline pilots get paid for guaranteed minimum each month, the minimum is a lot less than 40 hours a week. I think that unemployment is based on hours worked and amount being paid. With that being said, maybe a FO for a regional who is on reserve may be able to collect. If anyone has experience in this situation, I would appreciate a reply. One of my buddies asked me this question today, I told him I did not know the answer; but I would post it and hopefully find out for him. Thanks for your time.

Dittidano

OldAg84

In NC, you collect in weekly periods. If you don't get paid one week, you can collect that week, if you collect a check tyou cannot collect. You also cannot be employed by anyone, so if you are a "registered" pilot with an airline, you are likely considered employed and cannot collect, whether you work or not or got paid that week (or for that week) or not.

jonnyjetprop

The answer is no. You are considered a professional and the 40 hour per weeek thing does not apply. You can always try.

vagabond

The unemployment laws in every state is different, but they have one thing in common - benefits are granted to people who are unemployed through no fault of their own. So, first, you need to be unemployed (the definition is somewhere in the statutes). My understanding of reserve is that you sit around waiting for the dispatcher to call you, after which you rush yourself to the airport. You are not unemployed so very likely will not be eligible for unemployment benefits. Hope this helps.

Slice

Unemployment doubtful, welfare/food stamps, most likely!

KiloAlpha

Anyone know how much $$ you can collect in welfare/food stamps as a FO making $20k per year?

vagabond

Welfare benefits are very state-specific. And you have to jump through a lot of what many people consider humiliating hoops to get it. If you are really interested, you should contact your local welfare office.

On another related note, check into the IRS Earned Income Credit. Basically, Uncle Sam gives you money because you are poor. It helps to have kids with this one.