Can You Collect Unemployment in Missouri While Going to School? Yes—With Conditions

Short Answer: Yes, But Eligibility Depends on Several Factors

Core Requirements

• Job loss through no fault of your own
• Sufficient base-period earnings
• Actively seeking and available for work

School Attendance Impact

• Full-time school: May disqualify you if DES considers you "unavailable for work."
• Part-time (<20 hrs/week): Usually acceptable; may count as work-search activity if related to prior field.

Key Considerations

• Must report school schedule changes to Division of Employment Security (DES)
• Refusing a job offer due to class conflict may be "good cause"—but document it
• Work-search logs required; school can count if program aligns with reemployment goals

Best Step

Contact Missouri DES directly: labor.mo.gov/des or call 800-320-2519. Rules are case-specific and subject to change.