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Guidance for Federal Employees Affected by Federal Shutdown

The State of Nevada is committed to supporting Federal workers, contractors, and grantees who have been separated from employment.  Below are resources to help you transition smoothly, including information on Unemployment Insurance, job training, and employment assistance.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 22,000 federal employees work in Nevada, not including federal contractors.  It is not yet known how many may be eligible for unemployment insurance during the shutdown.

  • If you are furloughed (temporarily not working): You may apply for unemployment benefits during the shutdown.  If your hours are reduced, you may also qualify for partial benefits.  If you are working, but not receiving pay, you may also qualify for benefits.
  • Where to file: Federal unemployment claims should be filed in the state where your last official duty station was located, with limited exceptions.  If your duty station was outside the U.S., file your claim in the state where you currently live.
  • How to apply:  Start your claim online at NUI.nv.gov.  Step-by-step tutorial videos are available to guide you through the process.
  • Required documentation:  DETR must first establish your monetary eligibility, which typically takes 10–14 days for federal employee claims once all required documentation is received.  You can help speed this process by having your most recent pay stub, SF-8, SF-50, or last year’s W-2 ready.
  • Initial determination:  You may first receive a Monetary Determination showing $0 in benefits.  This is expected, as the federal government does not automatically report wages to state systems.  You will receive a revised determination once your wage information is verified.
  • Work search requirement:  As a furloughed federal employee, you will not be required to conduct a work search during the shutdown period.
  • Weekly certification:  Even though a work search is waived, you must still file a weekly certification to receive benefits.  The easiest way to do so is online at NUI.nv.gov.
  • Back pay repayment:  Once the federal government authorizes back pay, you will be required to repay any unemployment benefits received during the shutdown, as federal employees are guaranteed back pay by law.
     

Guidance for Employees Affected by the Deferred Resignation Program

Separately, paid administrative leave for federal employees who voluntarily accepted the Deferred Resignation Program ended on September 30, 2025.  These individuals will now be considered unemployed and may be eligible for UI benefits.

Key points for workers leaving federal service under this program:

  • You may file for unemployment benefits beginning the week of October 5, 2025, if you are no longer receiving wages.
  • Because your separation was voluntary, you will need to complete an online fact-finding questionnaire explaining your reason for leaving.
  • Filing a claim for benefits follows the same process as outlined above.  However, you will be required to actively look for work each week to remain eligible for benefits.
     

Additional Resources

Job Training Opportunities

Explore new career paths and enhance your skills through the WIOA Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) — a directory of approved training programs.

DETR also offers a wide range of services directed at those who are out of work or looking to change paths.  Career seekers are encouraged to register with Nevada’s largest database of jobs at EmployNV.gov, and visit or call an EmployNV Career Hub for help with no-cost employment and training assistance.
 

Get Help with EmployNV

Visit your local EmployNV Hubs for:

  • Personalized guidance on training options
  • Help navigating the ETPL
  • Support with applications and funding

Our EmployNV Career Hubs offer no-cost employment and training services, including:

  • One-on-one career coaching
  • Resume building and review
  • Job matching and referrals
  • Interview preparation
  • Skills assessments
  • Resume Assistance & Workshops

Register with Nevada’s largest job database:  www.EmployNV.gov.
 

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