A work-refusal case
begins with the offer
Before analyzing the reason for refusal, determine whether there was
a definite offer or referral and what the actual terms were.
Document the offer
Identify:
- employer and job;
- date and method of offer;
- wages and benefits;
- hours and schedule;
- location and commuting distance;
- duties and physical demands;
- duration and start date;
- required license or experience;
- safety or health conditions; and
- deadline and method for accepting.
A vague suggestion to “check back” or apply for an unknown job may
not present the same issue as a definite offer.
Suitability factors
State law may consider prior training and experience, wage
comparison, length of unemployment, commuting distance, health and
safety, labor-market conditions, and the duration of unemployment. A
reason that is adequate early in a claim may be weighed differently
later, depending on state law.
Reason for refusal
Preserve contemporaneous communications explaining the reason.
Medical restrictions, schedule conflicts, childcare, transportation,
unsafe conditions, materially lower wages, temporary work, or conflict
with a recall right may matter, but none is automatically
sufficient.
Adverse facts
Ignoring the offer, refusing without learning the terms, giving
inconsistent reasons, or relying on a preference not recognized by state
law can weaken the case.
State law and procedure
control
The governing definition, burden, deadline, hearing procedure, and
review route vary by jurisdiction. Use the notice in your own case and
the current official sources for your state. The national material on
this page explains recurring issues and advocacy methods; it does not
replace the state-specific rule.
Find your state guide
Understand the federal-state UI
system