Did Unemployment Insurance Modernization Provisions Increase Benefit Receipt among Economically Disadvantaged Workers?

This study investigates the effects of state expansions of unemployment insurance (UI) eligibility criteria on UI recipiency among unemployed workers. Using a difference-in-differences approach and data from the Current Population Survey (2003–20), we find evidence largely consistent with the expected overall and differential effects of the expansions. An alternative base period (ABP) increases UI take-up by approximately 5 percentage points. Some evidence suggests compelling family reasons provisions increase take-up among caregivers but not those without caring responsibilities. Part-time provisions increase take-up among previously part-time workers, with no effect on previously full-time workers. The estimated magnitudes are around 6 percentage points. In addition, we observe some evidence of differential impacts by gender. Our findings contribute insights into UI policy conversations, including federal mandates for ABP and part-time provisions in eligibility determinations.