Jobs and Job Training

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

Hi friend. Looking for work can feel like a lot, especially when other things are hard too. I'm really glad you picked this up. North Carolina has help for finding a job, getting training and filing for unemployment.

Here is the easy first step: go to NCWorks.gov to find an NCWorks Career Center near you. We'll walk through the rest together.

A few things to know

• You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
• Each program decides who it can serve. We can't promise a job or a spot in any training.
• Be careful with job offers that ask you to pay money up front.

What is NCWorks?

NCWorks Career Centers help people across the state find jobs and training. You can get help with job searches, resumes, interview practice, job fairs and training programs, and use computers and the internet at no cost.

Special programs serve veterans, young adults and people with a justice history. Find your center and register at NCWorks.gov.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ncworks.gov/

BUNKLY TIP

Bring your story

Write down your past jobs, even short ones. Life experience counts, my friend.

How do I file for unemployment?

If you lost your job through no fault of your own, you may be able to get unemployment benefits from the NC Division of Employment Security (DES). You file and manage your claim online through a MyNCUIBenefits account.

To reach the UI Support Center, call 888.737.0259, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://des.nc.gov/need-help/contact-us

Can I get cash help while I look?

Work First gives temporary cash help and work support to families with children. NCDHHS says families can get benefits for up to 24 months after moving into the work part of the program.

Apply at your county DSS or on ePASS.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/work-first-family-assistance

What if I have a record?

Having a record can make things harder, but it doesn't mean you can't find work. NCWorks has special programs for people with a justice history.

Legal Aid of North Carolina may be able to help with clearing a record; call 866.219.5262.

Sources: https://www.ncworks.gov/ and https://legalaidnc.org/

Questions people ask a lot

BUNKLY TIP

Every step counts

Looking for work takes courage. Keep going, my friend. You've got this!

How do I make the most of each call?

Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.

• Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
• Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
• Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
• Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
• Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
• Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.

BUNKLY TIP

Keep going, friend

If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.

What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?

A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.

• Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
• Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
• If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
• Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
• If a state agency denies you, the letter should tell you how to ask for a hearing and the deadline. Read it right away, and call legal aid if you need help.
• Dial 211 any time to look for other options near you.

BUNKLY TIP

You're doing great

Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.

Who can I call in my county?

Here is help that works across North Carolina, then job help in the biggest counties, then a county DSS list for other counties. Call ahead for hours.

North Carolina

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Mecklenburg County (Charlotte)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Wake County (Raleigh)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Other counties (call your county DSS)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

My job plan

Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!

Key numbers to keep

BUNKLY TIP

You're doing the right thing

Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.

About this guide

Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

Affordable living. Simplified

Download the PDF

Last updated October 22, 2026