Higher Mass. unemployment rate triggers state law extending benefits. What to know.

Unemployment recipients now eligible for 30 weeks of benefits

BOSTON (WWLP) - Massachusetts residents can now receive up to 30 weeks of unemployment benefits, and it is because of Springfield's climbing unemployment rate.  When any of the Bay State's seven metropolitan statistical areas' unemployment rates exceed 5.1% across a one-year average, this increase in benefits kicks in. Springfield was just reported to have an unemployment rate of 5.2%, making the increase mandated by a 2003 law to kick in. …

Higher Mass. unemployment rate triggers state law extending benefits. What to know.

New federal data show the Springfield area hit an unemployment rate of 5.2%. The Barnstable area trails closest to Springfield, at 4.9%.

Massachusetts unemployment increase stretches benefits period to 30 weeks

By Alison Kuznitz People filing new unemployment claims this week, as well as eligible existing claimants, can now receive benefits for up to 30 weeks, up from the previous maximum benefit period of 26 weeks. An extension of jobless benefits is triggered under state law when the unemployment r

15:19 The government's plans to increase unemployment benefits for those who have just been made redundant are meagre. The faster reduction in benefits after one year and the termination after two years are a ...