Trade-affected workers who apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) training benefits (Occupational Skills Training, On-the-Job-Training, Apprenticeships) or Job Search Allowance or Relocation Allowance are required to have an employment goal that would result in “suitable employment.”
Some workers may still be eligible for training benefits, Job Search Allowance, or Relocation Allowance, even if employed full-time if the current employment is not “suitable” by this definition. The job must meet all criteria of the definition to be considered “suitable.” Workers applying for Relocation Allowance are required to provide a legitimate job offer that meets the definition of suitable employment.
Minnesota TAA defines suitable employment as:
Full-time and permanent: At least 32 hours per week and “permanent;”
Salary Parameters: Pays at least 80% of one’s previous wages;
Work Hours: Approximately the same work hours as the previous employment;
Working conditions: Approximately the same working conditions as the previous employment;
Use of Skills: Work is substantially equal or higher skill level than the worker’s past adversely affected employment.