Looking for a job or changing careers can be expensive. Training, resume services, transportation, and other costs can add up, especially when you are already dealing with unemployment or limited income.
Before paying for career assistance, it is worth checking what is available through your state.
Every state has a workforce development system connected to federal and state programs. Depending on where you live and your eligibility, you may be able to access job-search assistance, career counseling, training information, workshops, and other employment services at little or no cost.
Knowing where to start can help you make better use of these resources.
1. Start With Your State Workforce Agency
State workforce agencies help connect workers with employment and training resources. The exact agency name differs by state. It might be called a Department of Labor, Department of Workforce Development, Employment Department, or something similar.
Services can vary, but commonly available resources include:
- Online job-search systems
- Career information
- Resume assistance
- Interview preparation
- Job fairs and hiring events
- Information about unemployment benefits
- Training program information
- Labor-market and wage data
Many services are available online, while others may require visiting a local office.
State job databases can be particularly useful because they provide another place to search for openings in addition to commercial employment websites.
Your state's labor-market information can also help you research which occupations are common in your area and what education or training they typically require.
2. American Job Centers Offer Local Help
One of the most important resources for job seekers is the American Job Center network, supported through the U.S. Department of Labor.
American Job Centers operate in communities throughout the country and provide employment services to workers at different stages of their careers.
Depending on the location and your circumstances, services may include:
- Career assessments
- Resume and application assistance
- Interview preparation
- Computer and internet access
- Job-search workshops
- Local job listings
- Career counseling
- Information about training opportunities
Some centers may also provide specialized assistance for veterans, workers affected by layoffs, people with disabilities, young adults, and other eligible groups.
You can search for your state's workforce agency or use the CareerOneStop American Job Center Finder to identify services in your area.
3. You May Qualify for Training Assistance
Learning new skills can improve the range of jobs you are prepared to pursue, but training can be costly.
State workforce systems administer programs connected to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Eligible participants may be able to receive assistance with approved education or job-training programs.
Eligibility, funding, and available programs vary. Assistance is not automatic, and not every course or school qualifies.
If you are interested in training, ask your local American Job Center about:
- WIOA eligibility
- Approved training providers
- In-demand occupations
- Apprenticeship opportunities
- Community college programs
- Career and technical education
Before enrolling in a program, find out whether assistance is available. Paying for training first and asking about funding later could limit your options.
4. Community Colleges Can Connect You With More Resources
Community colleges are another useful starting point, even if you are not currently a student.
Many work closely with state workforce agencies and local employers to provide career-focused programs. Some colleges also operate workforce centers or offer short-term training in fields such as health care, information technology, manufacturing, transportation, and skilled trades.
If you are considering an eligible college or career-school program, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Depending on eligibility, federal student aid can include grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. States and colleges may also use FAFSA information when determining eligibility for certain forms of assistance.
Ask the school's financial aid office about available federal, state, and institutional programs before deciding how to pay.
5. Free Resources Can Help With Career Decisions
Career assistance is not only for people who are unemployed. You might already have a job but want to explore a different occupation, earn a credential, or prepare for changes in your industry.
Free government resources can help you research those decisions.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook provides information about job duties, education requirements, work environments, pay, and employment outlook.
The CareerOneStop system also provides career profiles, skills assessments, training information, and tools for finding local employment resources.
State workforce agencies can add another important piece: information about the labor market where you actually live.
Before paying for training, compare this information with current job postings. Look for occupations with real openings and identify which qualifications employers repeatedly request.
Check Free Resources Before Paying for Help
Job seekers do not always have to navigate career changes alone or pay for every service themselves.
Your state workforce agency, American Job Centers, community colleges, CareerOneStop, and federal workforce programs may provide valuable assistance with job searches, career planning, and training.
Start by identifying your state's workforce agency and locating the nearest American Job Center. Ask what services are free, whether you qualify for training assistance, and which programs connect with local employment opportunities.
If additional education is part of your plan, explore community colleges and complete the FAFSA to learn about possible financial aid.
Using free career resources first can help you better understand your options before spending limited money on job-search services or training.