Get Training While You are Unemployed

The recession has resulted in a number of job losses. One of the things that some are doing is to go back to school or go through some sort of skills training or certification in order become more marketable for the future. This can be a smart move, and a good use of time if you are unemployed. Unfortunately, getting training or education while you are unemployed can mean loss of benefits. And it can be expensive to go to school without grants. Consumerism Commentary points out that some of the economic recovery measures espoused by President Obama address some of the problems faced by those looking for an education while unemployed:

The President has proposed using current rather than the prior year’s income to determine whether an student qualifies for the Pell Grant, financial aid for low-income families. Another proposal would ensure that students would not lose their unemployment benefits while enrolled in classes and training.

This is actually very helpful, since many find it impossible to improve their education and skills while unemployed because in order to receive benefits they have to spend a certain amount of time looking for work. Also, it is disappointing to find that your high income last year precludes you from getting the financial aid help you need this year — now that you don’t have the same kind of earnings.

It’s an interesting opportunity, and one that has the potential to not only help regular folks get through the recession, but also help create a more skilled and educated workforce for the jobs that should come with recovery.

image source: Wikipedia