Legal Definitions - available for work

The term "available for work" describes an individual who is genuinely prepared, eager, and capable of accepting suitable employment opportunities.

This means they meet three key criteria:

• Ready and Willing: They are actively seeking employment, not refusing reasonable job offers, and do not have unreasonable restrictions on the type of work they would accept.
• Able: They are physically and mentally capable of performing the duties of a job.
• Accept Employment: They do not have personal commitments or circumstances that would prevent them from starting a new job if offered.

Here are some examples illustrating what it means to be "available for work":

• Example 1: Applying for Unemployment Benefits

  After being laid off from her administrative assistant position, Sarah immediately updated her resume, started applying for similar roles online, and registered with a temporary staffing agency. She also ensured she had reliable childcare arrangements that would allow her to accept a job during standard working hours.

  Explanation: Sarah demonstrates she is "available for work" because she is actively seeking employment (ready and willing) and has made practical arrangements (childcare) to ensure she can accept a job if offered (able to accept employment).

• Example 2: A Recent Graduate Seeking a First Job

  David, a recent college graduate, is looking for his first full-time marketing position. He has set up job alerts, attends virtual networking events, and has no other commitments, such as full-time schooling or extensive travel plans, that would prevent him from starting a new role immediately. He is also in good health and capable of performing typical office duties.

  Explanation: David is "available for work" because he is actively pursuing job leads (ready and willing) and has no personal circumstances that would hinder him from accepting and commencing a new marketing role (able to accept employment and physically able).

• Example 3: A Job Seeker with Specific Preferences

  Maria, an experienced graphic designer, is looking for a new role. While she prefers remote work, she has indicated on her applications that she is open to hybrid or in-office positions within a reasonable commute. She has a fully functional home office setup and reliable transportation, ensuring she can perform her duties regardless of the work arrangement.

  Explanation: Maria is "available for work" because, despite having a preference, she is flexible enough to consider various work arrangements (ready and willing) and possesses the necessary resources (home office, transportation) to perform the job in different settings (able to accept employment and physically able).