​Applying for a benefit extension
https://www.uimn.org/applicants/needtoknow/specialprograms/extended-benefits.jsp
Applying for a benefit extensionApplying for a benefit extensionWhen you applied for regular unemployment benefits, we told you how much you could receive per week. This is called your Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA). We also told you how much in regular benefits you could receive. This is called your Maximum Benefit Amount (MBA).
If you divide your MBA by your WBA, you can tell how many weeks of FULL payments you can get. Usually it is 26 weeks, but it may be fewer if you have not been working very long. If you work part-time and are only eligible for a partial payment every week, your benefits may last a little longer than 26 weeks.
However, when unemployment is high, Congress can pass special laws to extend benefits so they last longer than 26 weeks.
Programs availableThere are currently two programs that allow you to continue receiving unemployment benefits after you run out of regular benefits:
  • Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) – provides up to 13 weeks of benefits if you run out of regular benefits
  • Extended Benefits (EB) – provides up to 13 weeks of benefits if you run out of PEUC
Note: Applicants currently receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) are NOT eligible for either PEUC or EB.
Most applicants will be eligible for both PEUC and EB, but Congress has set specific eligibility requirements for each program. You need to understand a bit about how these programs work – particularly if you are worried you may not find your next job before you run out of regular benefits.
What you should know about PEUC and EB How to apply for PEUCOnce your benefit account has expired or the balance has reached $0, you may see a notification at the top of your benefit account home page stating you may apply for an extended benefit account.
A link to apply for benefits will also display. Select the “Apply for Benefits” link to apply for an extended benefit account.

Depending on what information we need from you, the Apply for Benefits link will either take you to the PEUC application or the regular UI benefit application. Complete the steps below in order to find out if you are eligible for an additional benefit program. How to apply for EBOnce your PEUC benefits run out:
  • You will not be asked to complete a separate application for the Federal-State Extended Benefits (EB) program. We will automatically review your account to determine if you qualify.
  • Keep requesting payments each week.
  • It may be up to 10 days before our review is complete.
  • If you are eligible for EB, you will receive an Amended Determination of Benefit Account in the mail. Any pending payments will be made (assuming you meet other eligibility requirements).
  • If you are not eligible for EB, we will send you an Amended Determination of Benefit Account in the mail online. That determination will include an explanation of why you are not eligible.
Availability of benefit extensions Other resources 
  • COVID-19 information for workers 
  • If you need additional financial assistance, check these resources 
  • If you need assistance with food, housing, mental health, child care, or other basic needs, you can find resources on MN.Gov's Get Helpwebpage. 
  • Even though things are tough right now, you should look for work every week. Many employers are still hiring, but you may need to look outside of your usual industry or occupation. Online information and services are available through CareerForce.