The Shared Work program offers an alternative to layoffs for employers facing a temporary downturn in business.

Administered by our Unemployment Insurance Division, the program allows employers to divide available hours of work among a group of employees instead of implementing a full layoff. These employees may then receive partial unemployment insurance benefits while working reduced hours.

The purpose of Shared Work is to avoid a layoff, not to subsidize wages. Shared Work can help employers avoid the difficulties that can go along with a layoff. If employees keep working during a temporary slowdown, employers can more quickly gear up when business conditions improve.

Learn more about the Shared Work Program on our Unemployment Insurance Division’s website.