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Self Employment Assistance ProgramInstructions for Training ProvidersMay 5, 2011
Prepared by theEmployment Security Department’sWorkSource Standards and Integration Divisionand Unemployment Insurance Division
What is the Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP)?
In 2007, the state legislature authorized a self-employment assistance program to help unemployed individuals who are likely to run out of unemployment benefits before they find a new job and to create new businesses and job opportunities. The new law (RCW 50.20.250) allows people to collect benefits while they train to start and operate their own business.
If approved, participants do not have to look for work while they are enrolled in the program. They do not receive any additional benefit payments and the Employment Security Department is not obligated to expend any funds to provide for training programs. To be eligible, a person must: Be eligible to collect unemployment benefits. Be identified as “likely to exhaust” under the Employment Security
Department’s worker-profiling system. Be enrolled in a self-employment assistance program that is approved by
the department’s commissioner. Make satisfactory progress in the approved program. Agree to not compete with his or her last employer for up to a year after
completing the program.
To be approved, a training program must include: Entrepreneurial training. Business counseling. Technical assistance. Requirements to engage in activities relating to setting up a business
and becoming self-employed.
Like Commissioner-Approved Training (CAT) and Training Benefits, the Self-Employment Assistance Program does not pay for books, tuition or school-related fees.
This information and more is available online at www.seap.go2ui.com (see Appendix A).
What are my responsibilities as an SEAP-eligible training provider?
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To be an approved training provider, you must meet all of the following requirements.
Maintain a program that includes the four required elements: 1. Structured self-employment/entrepreneurial training curriculum.2. Business counseling.3. Technical assistance.4. Other required activities related to establishing a business and
becoming self-employed. Notify the department’s WorkSource Standards and Integration Division
if you no longer have all of the required elements to be an eligible training provider.
Verify information about your program on the participant’s SEAP application.
Complete your section of the participant’s progress report every six weeks for as long as the participant is in your program.
Notify the department when an individual completes, is terminated, or drops out of your program.
How will eligible SEAP participants know about my training program?
A letter will be mailed to all unemployment claimants who are eligible to participate in SEAP. The letter will direct them to a list of training providers available online or at their local WorkSource office (see Appendix B).
What do I need to do to enroll SEAP-eligible people into my training program?
First confirm that prospective enrollees are eligible to participate in SEAP. They will have received a letter from Employment Security notifying them of their eligibility to pursue the program (see Appendix B). If they do not have such a letter but believe they are eligible for SEAP, advise them to call the UI TeleCenter at 1-800-318-6022 to confirm their eligibility.
Beyond that, you do not need to do anything new. Once you and the prospective student have come to agreement on participation, you simply certify the accuracy of the information at the end of the SEAP application (see Appendix C).
Because the CAT/Training Benefits Unit uses the eligible training provider list information in the SEAP website (www.seap.go2ui.com) to verify the
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eligibility of the training program, please make sure that the program provider information included in Section 1 of the SEAP application matches the information reflected on the SEAP website.
In determining the Program End Date (also in Section 1 of the application), remember to include the structured curriculum, business counseling and technical assistance, particularly if the business counseling and technical assistance are ongoing after completion of required structured coursework.
After a prospective participant submits his or her application, Employment Security’s CAT/Training Benefits Unit will review the application and determine whether he or she is approved to enter training. Note: Applications submitted more than one quarter (3 months) in advance of the reported program start date will be denied.
If approved, the participant receives a Training Advisory letter that explains his or her responsibilities while in the program (see Appendix E).
How do I document satisfactory progress of an SEAP participant?
Participants must complete a progress report every six (6) weeks (see Appendix D). The participant completes Sections A and B, while you, as the approved training provider, complete Section C.
How do I notify Employment Security that an SEAP participant has completed or dropped out of my training program?
Use the student’s progress report to confirm that person is still participating in the program. If there is a change in status between reports or the person drop out of the training, please e-mail [email protected].
How do I extend the program end date for a SEAP participant?
It is important to note that SEAP extensions will only be considered on a case by case basis provided the claimant is still in the training program and making satisfactory progress and/or if the claimant can present an extenuating circumstance.
The training provider should send an e-mail to [email protected] and note “SEAP Extension Request” in the subject line. The e-mail must include:
1. The name of the participant and his or her Unemployment Insurance customer ID number.
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2. A detailed explanation as to why the extension is being requested.3. The new end date of the requested program.
Advance notice is appreciated and encouraged as it can prevent unnecessary issues on a UI claim that reaches the program end date before the extension request is received, reviewed, and approved.
Who should I contact if I have more questions about the SEAP program?
UI Policy Unit at 360-902-9666 or by e-mail at mailto:[email protected].
If you have questions specifically about SEAP eligible training providers, contact Alberto Isiordia, SEAP Manager, at 360-725-9478 or by e-mail at [email protected] or Lisa McCormick, Program Coordinator, at 360-725-9479 or by e-mail at [email protected].
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Appendix ASelf Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) Overview
Self-Employment Assistance ProgramThe Self-Employment Assistance Program allows unemployed workers to receive unemployment benefits while they train to become self-employed. If you are approved to participate in the program, you do not have to look for work while you are enrolled in training. Training is provided by local organizations, schools or colleges, and may not be available in every community.
The Self-Employment Assistance Program does not pay for books, tuition or school-related fees and it does not extend the number of weeks that you can collect unemployment benefits. Therefore, you are responsible for any financial planning needed to complete the training program.
After completing your program, you may not directly compete with your last employer or set up your business in the same area for one year.
Eligibility requirementsTo be eligible for the Self-Employment Assistance Program, you must:
Be eligible for regular unemployment benefits. Be identified as likely to run out of regular unemployment benefits before you find a new
job. Be enrolled in a training program that is approved by the Commissioner.
Approved training programsAll approved self-employment training programs include:
Entrepreneurial training. Business counseling. Technical assistance. Requirements to engage in activities relating to setting up a business and becoming self-
employed.
Application processWe will send you an eligibility letter if you are eligible to apply for the Self-Employment Assistance Program. After you receive the letter:
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1. Download and complete the Self-Employment Assistance Program Application or pick one up at your local WorkSource office.
2. Contact an eligible training provider http://www.esd.wa.gov/uibenefits/specialservices/training/self-employment-assistance-program.php to enroll in a training program.
3. Have the training provider complete and sign the Program Provider Certification section on the application.
4. Mail your completed application to:
CAT/Training Benefits UnitKing County TeleCenterP.O. Box 47076Seattle, WA 98146-7076
Your unemployment benefitsTo maintain your eligibility for unemployment benefits while in training, you must:
Be enrolled in a full-time training program. Make satisfactory progress in the program. Notify the department if you discontinue training, suspend training or reduce enrollment
to less than full-time.
If you do not meet these requirements, you may be required to look for work and meet other job-search requirements, such as participating in job-search workshops, in order to collect benefits. You also may be required to pay back benefits you have received.
Relevant Laws and RulesSelf-employment training - RCW 50.20.250
Defining satisfactory progress - WAC 192-270-065
Requirement to be available for work - RCW 50.20.010(1)(c)
Job-search requirements - RCW 50.20.240
Requirements to accept suitable work - RCW 50.20.080
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Appendix BUI Claimant Notice of SEAP Eligibility
STATE OF WASHINGTONEMPLOYMENT SECURITY DEPARTMENT
ELIGIBILITY FOR SELF EMPLOYMENT
John Doe123 Main StreetAny City, WA 98765 SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX Entrepreneurship is a successful part of job creation in Washington. Through a Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP), you can create your own means of employment in an occupation that interests you while stimulating the local economy. Each business startup can provide employment opportunities for you and for job seekers you hire. If you are eligible, this program is a valuable option if you wish to work but have the desire to run your own business. Participating in this program can provide you with the flexibility and income opportunity unavailable through traditional employment.
SEAP is a unique opportunity for you to enter into self-employment training and receive counseling while you get unemployment benefits. If you qualify and enroll in a qualified training program, you are not required to look for other work while in the program.
How do I find out more?
Go to seap.go2ui.com or Go to your local WorkSource office.
On the Web site or at WorkSource, you will find:
A list of self-employment assistance programs approved by the Employment Security Commissioner;
Eligibility requirements; and An application and instructions on how to apply.
Please note: Until you qualify, you must attend any scheduled mandatory orientations to WorkSource services and job-search review interviews in order to remain eligible for unemployment benefits.
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Appendix CSelf-Employment Assistance Program Application
STATE OF WASHINGTONEMPLOYMENT SECURITY DEPARTMENT
APPLICATION FOR SELF-EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
John Doe123 Main StreetAny City, WA 98765
WorkSource321 Main StreetAny City, WA 98765
SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX
You may be eligible to participate in a self-employment assistance program and also receive your unemployment benefits. For a list of approved training providers, see www.seap.go2ui.com or contact your nearest WorkSource office.
If approved, you do not have to look for work while participating. We will make a decision on your eligibility based on your answers to the following questions.
Note: We do not pay for books, tuition or program-related fees. Approval does not extend the number of weeks you can collect unemployment benefits. Your unemployment benefits may run out before the end of your program. If you have any questions, call the CAT/Training Benefit Unit at 877-600-7701.
SECTION 1 – SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM INFORMATION
Please answer the following questions about your self-employment program. Return this completed form and any other supporting documents by [return date] to the address listed above. We will contact you if we need additional information.
1. Program provider information:Name: ___________________________________________________________Address: _________________________________________________________Phone: ___________________________________________________________Program contact person: _____________________________________________
2. Program start date: _____________________________________________________
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3. Program end date: _____________________________________________________
SECTION 2 - CERTIFICATION
Applicant Certification
I am applying for approval to participate in the Self-Employment Assistance Program. I understand this information may be verified and that I must promptly report any changes in the above conditions to the CAT/Training Benefit Unit at 877-600-7701.
I authorize my Self-Employment Assistance Program provider to release information to the Employment Security Department about my enrollment and participation in the program.
I understand that I must continue to seek work until I am notified that I am approved.
I understand that I cannot directly compete with my last employer for a period not to exceed one year after completing my program.
The information I provided is true to the best of my knowledge.Signature: ___________________________________________________________Date: ___________________________ Phone: (____)_________________________
Program Provider Certification
I have reviewed Section 1, Self-Employment Program Information, of this application. The information provided is correct to the best of my knowledge. We find the applicant has the skills, ability, aptitude and resources to successfully complete the self-employment assistance program.
We will certify to the applicant’s participation in our program as required.
Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ___________________Title/Position: ___________________________________Phone: __________________
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Appendix DSelf-Employment Assistance Program Satisfactory Progress Report
STATE OF WASHINGTON EMPLOYMENT SECURITY DEPARTMENT Progress Report
Date WorkSource Center John Doe 123 Main Street Any City, WA 98765 SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX You must make satisfactory progress in your full-time training or self-employment assistance program to remain eligible for unemployment benefits. Satisfactory progress means: - Your grade point average does not fall below 2.0 for more than
one quarter; - Your grade point average is high enough to graduate or receive a
certificate in your approved area of study; and - You are on track to finish your approved training within the timeframe set in your approved training plan.
If you are in a self-paced or ungraded learning program (including a self-employment assistance program), satisfactory progress means you attend and participate in classes, pass certification examinations, or otherwise participate so you can complete your training within the timeframe set in your approved training plan. DIRECTIONS: Please complete question A and B. Your school must complete Section C. A. If you are currently enrolled in a training program: 1. Are you attending classes or related activities full-time? Yes __ No __ If no, please explain in detail (attach information if necessary) __________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ 2. Are you making satisfactory progress in your program? Yes __ No __
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If no, please explain in detail (attach information if necessary): ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ 3. Have you changed your major area of study? Yes __ No __
If yes, please explain in detail: __________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ 4. Have you changed training providers or your training program? Yes __ No __
If yes, please explain in detail:_____________________________________ __________________________________________________________________
B. If you are no longer in training: Did you complete training? Yes __ No __ If yes, date completed: ______________ If no, what date did you leave training and why? Explain in detail:_____________
__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ C. To be completed by the training provider designee: 1. Name of training facility: _____________________________________________ 2. Is the information provided by the claimant complete and correct? Yes __ No __ If no, please explain ____________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 3. Name ____________________________ Title _____________________ Phone ______________________________________________________ Signature: ____________________________ Date: _________________ Claimant: Sign and mail this form by [return date] to the address listed below. If you do not, we may deny your benefits and you may have to pay back the benefits you received. Return to: WorkSource Center Street Address City, WA Zip Code
Signature: _______________________________________________ Telephone number: ________________________________________ Date: ________________________________________________________
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Appendix ETraining Advisory Letter
STATE OF WASHINGTONEMPLOYMENT SECURITY DEPARTMENT
Training Advisory
John Doe123 Main StreetAny City, WA 98765
WorkSource Center321 Main StreetAny City, WA 98765
SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX BYE: Date
We approved your application for training from &ISSTARTDATE1 through &ISSENDDATE1. This approval does not extend the number of weeks you receive unemployment benefits. You may run out of benefits before you complete training.
NOTE: We may have approved your training plan even though you may run out of benefits before you complete training. We did this because you told us you have the resources to complete your training even if your unemployment ends.
If you applied for Training Benefits, we will mail you a separate letter to tell you whether you are eligible.
While you are in approved training:
Continue to file your weekly claims to get your unemployment check.
Answer "Yes" to the question: "Were you physically able and available for work each day?" if true and "No" to the question: "Did you make an active search for work as directed?"
You do not have to look for work:Self-Employment Assistance Program
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If you are within one quarter or term of starting your training.
If you are attending training,
During customary breaks between quarters or terms.
If you are not attending summer term, provided your training plan included this information and you are enrolled full-time for fall term.
If you take a job and quit, you could be denied benefits.
You must immediately call the TeleCenter at 1-800-318-6022 if:
You make any changes to your approved training plan.
Your training drops below full-time.
You are not making satisfactory progress in your training,
NOTE: If you do not call to report these changes, we may deny your benefits and you may have to pay back the benefits you received.
You must submit proof of "satisfactory progress." We will mail you a form every six weeks. An authorized training representative must sign the form verifying you are enrolled full-time and making satisfactory progress. Return the completed, signed form to the TeleCenter. The form is on the Internet at www.forms.go2ui.com.
NOTE: If you receive a form before your training starts or while you are between quarters or terms, explain why training is not in session and mail the form to us.
If your training ends for any reason, you must immediately look for work and keep a job search log to remain eligible for benefits.
If you have any questions, please call the TeleCenter at 1-800-318-6022.
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