Fiscal Year 2026 Funding Allotments and Operating Guidance for Unemployment Insurance Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessments Grants

The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) is providing funding for the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessments (RESEA) program for Fiscal Year 2026. The program aims to improve employment outcomes for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefit recipients and reduce the average duration of UI benefit receipt. States are encouraged to increase the percentage of UI claimants selected for RESEA and to integrate RESEA services with other workforce programs. The program includes initial and subsequent RESEA meetings, reemployment services, and evaluation requirements. States must submit a RESEA State Plan and report on program performance. Key aspects of the program include: * Definitions for RESEA-specific terms * Funding details, including the base-funding formula for state grants and allowable uses of funds * Program design requirements, including integration with WIOA and other workforce-funded services * Program operations, including the required engagement of UI staff and performance reporting requirements * Evaluation requirements, including the use of evidence-based interventions and evaluation set-aside funds * State plan submission process and timelines Some of the key services that will be provided under this program include: * Initial RESEA meetings to assess claimants' needs and provide customized labor market and career information * Subsequent RESEA meetings to review claimants' progress and provide additional assistance as needed * Reemployment services, including job training and placement services * Evaluation and reporting requirements to assess program effectiveness The RESEA program is designed to support the America's Talent Strategy, which aims to address the workforce needs of American companies through increased integration and accountability of workforce development programs. States are encouraged to develop approaches that assist all people, regardless of skill level, education, or professional experience, to reenter and advance within the labor market.