The United States funds a network of free job-search services that most people never use. If you're between jobs, these can pay for training, put a coach in your corner and replace part of your income while you look. Here's what exists and how to access it.

American Job Centers

Every state runs centers funded by the Department of Labor, often called American Job Centers, Workforce Centers or One-Stop Career Centers. They offer, free of charge:

  • One-to-one career coaching and résumé help
  • Workshops on interviewing and job search
  • Computers, printers and internet access
  • Referrals to funded training programs
  • Hiring events with local employers

Find your nearest center through CareerOneStop's center finder. Walk-ins are usually welcome; call ahead to confirm hours.

Unemployment insurance

If you lost a job through no fault of your own, you may qualify for weekly unemployment benefits from your state. File as soon as you are out of work; benefits usually start from the date you file, not the date you were laid off. Each state has its own rules, waiting periods and work-search requirements. Start at CareerOneStop's unemployment benefits finder, which links to every state office.

Funded training

Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, eligible job seekers can have short training programs paid for: commercial driving, healthcare certifications, IT support, manufacturing and more. Ask your American Job Center about eligibility. Registered apprenticeships, found at Apprenticeship.gov, go a step further and pay you a wage while you train.

Other support between jobs

  • Benefits.gov screens you for federal and state programs you may qualify for, including food assistance and healthcare coverage.
  • Veterans and military spouses can get free personalised help from Hire Heroes USA and the VA's employment services.
  • Local Goodwill career centers and many public libraries run free résumé and computer-skills sessions.

Everything on this page is free. If anyone asks you to pay for access to unemployment benefits, government training or "guaranteed placement", it is a scam. See our warning signs.

Putting it together

  1. File for unemployment the week you stop working, if eligible.
  2. Visit your American Job Center in week one and ask about coaching and training funds.
  3. Keep applying on the boards and employer portals and log your work-search activity; most states require it.