Account Assistance

1. Can I use my email address for more than one workNet account?
   
   
   No. It is Illinois workNet's policy that only one email address can be associated with one Illinois workNet account.

   
   
2. How do I create an Illinois workNet account?
   
   

   ​To create an Illinois workNet account:

   1. Go to the Illinois workNet home page.
   2. Click on Sign Up in the header.
   3. Fill out all of the required information.
      
   4. Click save.
   5. Check your email for confirmation (check junk/spam if you do not see it)
   6. Click the link to activate your account.
   7. Log-In

   
   
3. How do I get My Dashboard to work on my Mac or iOS device?
   
   

   ​Follow these steps for My Dashboard to work properly on your devices:

   Safari Browser:
   Open Safari and select Preferences > Privacy > Block Cookies and other website data > Change to “Never"

   iOS:
   Go to Settings > Safari > Block Cookies > Change to “Always Allow”
   
   

4. How do I reset My Illinois workNet password (I forgot my password or user ID)?
   
   

   To reset your password:

   1. Go to the Illinois workNet Home Page and click on "Log-in" in the header.
   2. Click on "Forgot Username/Password?" below the password field. There are 2 methods to reset your password:
   3. Select Option 1 to have a link sent to you via email that will reset your password
      OR
      Select Option 2 and enter your email address and date of birth and answer to your secret question to reset your password.
      

   NOTE: the email you enter must match the email connected with your Illinois workNet account or you will not receive the password reset email. If you are not sure of the email with your account we recommend option 2.
   
   

5. How do I reset my password for my Illinois JobLink account?
   
   

   ​The Illinois JobLink website is provided through the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).

   If you need assistance with your password please contact IDES.
   
   

6. How do I update my Illinois workNet Profile?
   
   

   ​To update your profile:

   1. From any Illinois workNet page click "Log-In" from the header.
   2. Enter your username and password and click "Login".
   3. Click "My Dashboard" from the My Dashboard menu.
   4. Click "Profile" from the menu.
   5. Update your account information and click "Save".

   
   
7. I am trying to find My Dashboard. I have used it before and I cannot find it.
   
   

   After you log-in to the Illinois workNet website, you will have a "My Dashboard" drop-down across the top of each workNet page.
   
   

8. I created an account and recieved an email to verify my account. Do I have to do this? What is the purpose?
   
   

   ​We have recently implemented the confirmation process to our account registration for security reasons, and to ensure that it is an actual person creating the account. This process is used to protect the system and all customer information. We understand that this is adding an additional step, but you only have to click the link (or copy and paste the link) from the email once and your account is verified. You can then login and continue to utilize Illinois workNet’s tools and information.

   If you do not verify your account you will not be able to login and utilize certain tools on Illinois workNet. So we encourage you to verify your account right away to get started using the site!
   
   

9. I have an Illinois workNet account that I did not create. Where did it come from?
   
   

   When you visit an Illinois workNet Center or another center that offers WIOA services a Career Planner may have created an Illinois workNet account for you. You can use the password recovery information to get logged into your account.
   
   

10. Is my Social Security Number secure on the Illinois workNet portal?
    
    

    Illinois workNet secures Social Security Numbers (SSN) by encrypting them, meaning information is coded for your protection and prevents outside parties from viewing or understanding it.
    

11. What if I have multiple accounts with Illinois workNet and need to remove them?
    
    

    If you have multiple accounts with Illinois workNet, please email info@illinoisworknet.com and we can work with you on getting accounts inactivated until you only have one remaining account.
    

12. Why can't I log-in to the account I just created?
    
    

    After creating an Illinois workNet account, you will be sent a confirmation email with a link to activate your account. Once you click on this link, you will be able to log-in and access your account anytime.

    If you have checked your email and do not see the confirmation email from Illinois workNet, make sure to check your junk or spam folder in case it was routed there.
    

    If you still do not see the confirmation email from Illinois workNet, please contact us for assistance.
    

Adult Education

1. How do I get a copy of my GED?
   
   

   ​You should contact the location that you took the GED exam, they should have the information you are requesting. Another option is to contact the Illinois Community College Board.
   

Assessments - Observational

1. What is the Observational Assessment?
   
   

   Unlike tests that measure skill comprehension, observed assessments provide verification that a person demonstrates proficiency under real world conditions. Skills such as verbal communication and self-control are extremely difficult to measure on a test and are better measured by observation. This assessment aligns to how businesses use personal references to verify a person’s skills.

   This assessment is conducted by a teacher, instructor or program manager using their observations. This is not a test that a person takes on paper or online.

   It should only be used in a program where a person’s skills are observed multiple times in different situations over a course of time. We recommend a minimum 6 week observational period. This ensures that a skill set is habitual versus a temporary performance.

   It should be used formatively to support a person’s skill growth. Ideally, a person gets assessed at periodic intervals over the course of a program and is provided feedback on how to improve. Unlike tests that can lose efficacy the more they are given, observed assessments are only impacted by the assessor’s ability to measure observed behavior.​
   
   

Career Readiness Actvities

1. Are the Skills & Interests Surveys going away?
   
   
   No! The new Skills & Interests offers an updated format with additional assessment options. This update is provided by the Illinois Career Information System (CIS), brought to you by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
   
2. How can I save my old Skills & Interests assessments?
   
   
   ​Results for old Skills & Interests assessments in CIS will no longer be available after June 30, 2024. The old CIS results can be printed or saved as a PDF following these steps:
   

   1. ​Login to your Illinois workNet account.
   2. Select My Dashboard.
      
   3. Click Dashboard.
   4. Scroll down to Assessments, select "SKILLS AND INTERESTS."
      
   5. Choose "View CIS Assessments (Old). This will redirdct to the old My CIS Portfolio where you will find previous Sorts and Assessment Results.
      
   6. Click "Restore the Answer Set"; a message will appear saying “Your answers have been restored.”
   7. Click Continue.
   8. Select the Print icon; a screen will appear, then select Print Results.
   9. Depending on whether you wish to print or save the results as a PDF, you will:
      
   • To Print = The "Destination" is automatically set to your device's printer. Click "Print" for the results to print.
   • To Save as PDF = Change the "Destination" to "Save as PDF" then click "Save." You can update the File Name and select the location to save the results, then click "Save."
     
   10. Exit the screen, now that you are done.
       
3. How long will old Skills & Interests assessments be available?
   
   
   Individuals and workforce partners have until June 30, 2024 to save or print the old Skills & Interests results.
   

Company Layoff Pages

1. What if I don't see my company on the Company Layoff Search page?
   
   

   ​ If you’ve been affected by a job layoff but cannot find it within the search, select the Layoff Recovery Step Guide from the menu for state-wide resources.
   
   

Illinois workNet Center

1. How can I find an Illinois workNet Center?
   
   

   ​To find an Illinois workNet Center close to you, user the Illinois workNet Service Finder to search via City, ZIP Code, or County. This will provide a list of Illinois workNet Centers, Satellite and partner sites. 
   

   Be sure to select an Illinois workNet Center if available because not all Satellite or partner sites provide WIOA services. To see the services that the sites offer, click on the link to View Services. Use filters to narrow your results by what services you’re looking for. Click on Legend to find out what the icons used mean.
   
   

Jobs

1. How can I search for a job on Illinois workNet?
   
   

   The Illinois workNet JobFinder can be used to search for job opportunities.

   Expand your results with Advanced Search Options:

   • Experiment with Keywords
     
   • Change the Search Radius to open the distance and use your Zip Code for the Location 
     
   • Select your desired Job Sector and Position Type
     

   
   
2. Was the Illinois Skills Match website replaced?
   
   
   Yes, the Illinois Skills Match website was replaced with Illinois JobLink.
   
   
   
3. What are common interview questions?
   
   

   This handout covers commonly asked interview questions. Practice for an interview using Illinois workNet's Interview Tool; a mock interview asks questions, and you can record your responses. It will show why the question is asked and how to best answer it. Get started in this article that includes a Help Guide and a short video demonstrating how to navigate the tool.
   

Policy

1. Does Illinois workNet link to external websites?
   
   
   Illinois workNet links to many external sources throughout our website. These links can also be used in email communications. Please view our Privacy Policy to learn about our disclaimer of external links.
   
   

Reporting a Layoff

1. How do I report my layoff?
   
   

   Select your layoff type below to learn how to report your layoff:

   • Rapid Response Layoff
     
   • Trade Layoff
   • WARN Layoff
     
     
2. What is a Trade layoff?
   
   

   A trade layoff is due to increased imports or production shifted out of the United States.​
   
   

3. What is a WARN Layoff?
   
   

   ​The Illinois law is very similar to the Federal WARN act. However, there are some important differences between the two laws:

   Federal WARN  - Applies to employers with 100 or more full-time workers

   Definition of “Mass Layoff” triggering notice requirements:

   • 50 or more full-time employees are laid off if they constitute one-third or more of the full-time employees at the site, or
   • 500 or more full-time employees

   Illinois WARN - Applies to employer with 75 or more full-time workers

   Definition of “Mass Layoff” triggering notice requirements:

   • 25 or more full-time employees are laid off if they constitute one-third or more of the full-time employees at the site, or
   • 250 or more full-time employees
     
     
4. Who can I contact about the WARN Act in Illinois?
   
   

   ​Contact the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Bureau of Workforce Development:

   John Ray
   (217) 558-2432
   john.ray@illinois.gov

   Reporters please call:

   Emily Bolton
   Media Relations Director
   Emily.Bolton@illinois.gov
   
   
5. Who can I contact about Trade layoffs in Illinois?
   
   

   Illinois Trade Program Contact Information:

   Susan Boggs and/or Shelia Sloan

   Illinois TAA Coordinators
   Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
   Office of Employment and Training
   500 East Monroe, 9th Floor
   Springfield, IL  62701
   Phone: (217) 558-2474
   Fax:  (217) 558-2444
   
   

6. Who can I contact if my layoff is local and not WARN or Trade?
   
   

   Use the Company Layoff Search page to see if your layoff has already been reported by searching by company, city, or layoff date.

   • If your layoff is listed, click on it and select the Service Locations tab to contact your local Illinois workNet Center.
   • If you're layoff is not listed use the Illinois workNet Service Locator to find an Illinois workNet Center near you to contact.​
     
     

Resume Builder

1. How do I access the Resume Builder
   
   
   All you need is an Illinois workNet account to access the Resume Builder. If you do not have an account, click the Sign-up button. If you already have an Illinois workNet account, you can access the Resume builder from your dashboard or via the quick links menu directly below the header.
   
   
2. The ResumeBuilder Terms and Policies mentions a Payment and Billing section. Does this tool cost to use?
   
   

   ResumeBuilder is free using your Illinois workNet account! The listed Policies and Terms on ResumeBuilder are for all users but not applicable when using an Illinois workNet account. This platform does cost for a general user without an Illinois workNet account. Free features and tools include uploading a resume or creating a new resume, cover letter, portfolio, practice Interviews, assessments, or create a website to brand yourself. Once logging into your Illinois workNet account, click on “Resumes” in the Header to get started.
   

3. What can I use the Resume Builder for?
   
   

   Wth the Illinois workNet's Resume Builder, you can do the following:

   • Build your ResumeBuilder,
   • Build your Cover Letter
   • Build your Portfolio
   • Take Skills Assessment
   • Prep for Interviews
     
   • Create a Video Resume
     
   • Build a website similar to a LinkedIn profile
     
   • Browse and Edit Resumes and Cover Letter samples
     
     
4. What is SkillsFirst?
   
   

   SkillsFirst is a resume builder, that is FREE for all Illinois workNet account holders, where you can build a resume, cover letters, portfolios, prepare for interviews, and more!
   
   

5. Will the Resume Builder be updated for SkillsFirst?
   
   

   ​Illinois workNet is excited to announce the new and improved updates are being implemented across the Resume Builder tools! Users still have access to the core set of building tools that are improving and expanding to provide a complete set of career preparation tools to fully showcase skills through a comprehensive career portfolio. The Frequently Asked Questions below offer information on what you can expect from the update.
   

   When will the update take place?

   During the weekend of 10/1/2022, the Illinois workNet Resume Builder and Cover Letter Builder will update to a new version of the tool called SkillsFirst.

   What does this mean? 

   Any previously saved resumes and cover letters (PDF and Word files) saved in the Illinois workNet Resume Builder will need to be transferred over to the new version of the tool.

   Will I still be able to access my resumes and cover letters that I created with the current resume builder?

   If you move your Resume(s) and Cover Letter(s) to SkillsFirst, then they will not be deleted. Your Resume(s) and Cover Letter(s) are accessible from the Document Center.
    
   How long do I have to transfer my resumes and cover letters to SkillsFirst?

   After January 15th, 2023, previously saved Resumes and Cover Letters that have not been moved to SkillsFirst will be deleted from the Document Center of the Illinois workNet Resume Building tools. Note: This will be the same page where you find your previously saved resumes, cover letters, elevator pitches, and other resources. 
    
   How can I transfer my documents into SkillsFirst?

   Here is how you can move your Resume(s) and Cover Letter(s) into SkillsFirst:

   • Visit IllinoisworkNet.com
   • Select the Login icon and log into your account
     
   • In the Dashboard banner, select “Resumes”
     
   • You will be redirected to the Document Center
     
   • In the Resumes section, you will see a message to your Resume(s) into SkillsFirst. Follow the prompts to move your previously saved resumes into SkillsFirst.
     
   • Note: You will need to repeat this process for any previously saved Cover Letter(s) as well.

   How can I access the new resume and cover letter tools?

   • Login to your Illinois workNet account
   • Select “Resumes” in the Dashboard banner
   • You will be redirected to the Document Center, where you can click on your previously saved documents or create a new one
   • When you make your click “Create New Resume” or “Create New Cover Letter,” you will be redirected to the new building tool
     

   If it will be your first time accessing the building tools, you will need to confirm your email address:

   • After following the steps above, click Continue to confirm your email address.
   • You will then see a message asking you to check your email. Go to your inbox and open the confirmation email (be sure to check your spam and junk folders if you do not see it), and click the confirmation link in the email.
   • Note: This link will expire in one hour, so be sure to confirm before the hour runs up, or you will have to repeat this confirmation process.
   • Once you select the link, you will be redirected back to the building tools, where you can create your documents.
     

Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)

1. Are There Other Ways to Find Out What Petitions Have Been Certified?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​There are multiple ways to find out if your worker group is Trade certified. You can check the Illinois listings or go to the US DOL website and search for your employer.
   

2. How Can I Qualify for These Benefits?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​The first step to receiving TAA benefits and services is to file a petition online or by mail with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).  Petitions are available online and may also be obtained at your Local Workforce Area American Job Centers.
   
   

3. What Benefits Can I Receive If My Petition Is Certified?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​Employment and Case Management Services - Skills assessments, career counseling, supportive services, information on growth occupations, and many more.

   Training Benefits - Up to 130 weeks of remedial, occupational or other types of training geared toward suitable employment that will result in employment of 80 % of the prior wage with equal or higher skill level.
   

   Trade Readjustment Allowances (TRA) - Up to 130 weeks of wage subsidies for workers enrolled in full time training within the enrollment deadlines. The worker must also document daily attendance and meet 60 day benchmarks for continuation of these benefits.
   

   Reemployment or Alternative Trade Adjustment Assistance (RTAA or ATAA) - A wage subsidy for up to two years available to workers age 50 or over who are reemployed at annual wages of $50,000 or less. The program pays 50% of the difference between the workers old wage and the new wage for the defined period.

   Job Search Allowance - Possible reimbursement for pre-approved Job Interview costs outside the worker’s commuting area.

   Relocation Allowance - Possible reimbursement for pre-approved relocation costs for verified suitable employment outside the worker’s commuting area.
   
   

4. What Happens After DOL Receives the Petition?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​Upon receiving a petition, DOL initiates an investigation to determine whether the circumstances of the layoff meet the group eligibility criteria.  After the investigation, DOL determines group eligibility to apply for TAA benefits and services. Workers in a certified group will be notified by their state, at which time they may apply for individual eligibility for benefits and services.
   
   

5. What is the Trade Adjustment Assistance Program?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program is a federal program that assists U.S. workers who have lost or may lose their jobs as a result of foreign trade. This program seeks to provide adversely affected workers with opportunities to obtain the skills, credentials, resources, and support necessary to become reemployed.
   
   

6. Who Are the Designated Contacts for Trade in Illinois?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   Susan Boggs
   TAA Coordinator

   Office of Employment and Training
   Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
   500 E Monroe St, 9th Floor
   Springfield, IL 62701
   Phone: (217) 558-2474
   Fax: (217) 558-2444
   Email: susan.boggs@illinois.gov

    

   Sheila Sloan
   TAA Quality Assurance Manager
   Office of Employment and Training
   Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
   500 E Monroe St, 9th Floor
   Springfield, IL 62701
   Phone: (217) 558-2433
   Fax: (217) 558-2444
   Email: sheila.sloan@illinois.gov

    

   John Ferry
   Special Programs Manager – UI/TRA Benefits
   Illinois Department of Employment Security
   1300 South 9th Street
   Springfield, IL 62704
   Phone: (217) 524-7826
   Fax: (217) 524-7900
   Email: john.ferry@illinois.gov

    

   Erik Hack
   ESS 1- RTAA
   Illinois Department of Employment Security
   1300 South 9th Street
   Springfield, IL 62704
   Phone: (217) 558-1276
   Fax: (217) 557-4924
   Email: Erik.Hack@illinois.gov

   
   

   Angela Mosley
   ESS 1 – TRA/Petitions
   Illinois Department of Employment Security
   1300 South 9th Street
   Springfield, IL 62704
   Phone: (217-524-7843
   Fax: (217) 524-0570
   Email: Angela.Mosley@illinois.gov

   
   

7. Who Can File The Petition?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   
   • ​Three or more workers in the same firm or subdivision;
   • The workers’ employer;
   • A union official or other duly authorized representative of such workers; or
   • Local Workforce Area Operators (including State Workforce Agencies and Dislocated Worker Units).
     
     

8. Who Do I Contact at the Local Workforce Area?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​This is a link to the State of Illinois Trade Adjustment Assistance Act Program Primary Contacts by Local Workforce Areas where you directly apply for TAA benefits and services.
   

9. Who Do I Contact If I am Moving to Another State?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   

   ​This is a link to all State TAA and TRA Coordinators.
   
   
   

Training Types

1. How do schools and programs get included with Career Information System? How can a school/program request to be added?
   
   

   ​To be included in CIS a school must appear on the approved roster of schools from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) or the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). IBHE also maintains the approved roster of Private Business and Vocational Schools.

   To request to be added to CIS please contact des.icrn@illinois.gov
   
   

2. What is the ongoing update process for updating school and program information with CIS?
   
   

   ​Every December, IDES sends out a survey to all schools in CIS. Schools are given credentials to login, review, and update their information. The review process is normally completed in March and updated information is released to the production version of CIS in April. At any time during the year, schools can request updates by sending an email to des.icrn@illinois.gov – changes are verified and typically promoted within 1 to 2 business days. Programs of Study and Training are updated annually based on the rosters of approved programs received from ICCB and IBHE.
   
   

3. What source do the WIOA Approved Training Programs come from?
   
   

   ​Illinois workNet syncs with the Illinois Workforce Development System (IWDS) nightly to ensure only the current approved and certified programs show. These are only the programs that are within the re-certification date.
   
   

Unemployment Insurance

1. How do I apply for Unemployment Insurance?
   
   

   Visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security's website to file a claim for unemployment benefits.
   

2. How do I get a copy of my tax withholding statement (1099-G) from IDES? 
   
   

   If you received Unemployment Insurance (UI) last year, please follow this link to learn how to get a copy of this statement from IDES.
   

3. How do I reset my password for my unemployment benefits?
   Audience: Laid Off Worker
   
   Visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security's Password and Login Assistance webpage or call the IDES Claimant Services Center at (800) 244-5631.
   

   
   

4. I receive Unemployment Insurance payments. Do I have to file form 1099-G with my taxes? 
   
   

   Unemployment benefits are subject to federal and state income tax. Each year, Form 1099-G is mailed by January 31 to those individuals who received UI benefits in the previous calendar year, using the last address on file. Alternatively, individuals can request to get the form online.

   Please follow this link​ for more information.
   
   

5. I recently lost my job. Can I apply for Unemployment Insurance online?
   
   
   The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) offers an online application process for filing Unemployment Insurance claims. Follow this link​ to start your Unemployment Insurance claim process.
   
   

WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act)

1. Can I search for WIOA Certified Training Providers in Illinois?
   
   
   Yes, use the WIOA Approved Training Programs Search to view approved training providers and programs. To narrow results, filter by Zip Code or Keyword for Training Programs or Training Providers.
   
   
2. Can I take out student loans if WIOA doesn’t cover my full tuition?
   
   

   ​Yes, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FASFA, online or in person at the college you are attending. You may qualify for a Pell grant or subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Keep in mind you may not be eligible for financial assistance if you have previous unpaid loans from the past or have a GPA lower than 2.5.
   

   
   
3. Can WIOA be used for purchases to startup a business?
   
   
   Illinois Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) are located throughout the state and provide information, confidential business guidance, training, and other resources for start-ups and existing small businesses.
   

   Services Include:
   

   • One-on-one business advice and management assistance
   • Assistance with the development of business plans
   • Help with accessing market information and the development of marketing plans
   • Assistance with accessing business financing programs
   • Assistance with financial analysis and planning
   • Access to business education and training opportunities
   • Specialized services in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurial development
     

   More information about Illinois Small Business Development Centers can be found here.
   

   
   
4. How can I apply for WIOA Services?
   
   

   Illinois workNet Centers throughout the state provide Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services to individuals who wish to apply for available training programs or obtain other services. Contact an Illinois workNet Center in your area for eligibility information and the application process.
   

   Use the Illinois workNet Service Finder to view a list of workNet Centers in your area. To see what services the location offers, click on the Services for Individuals arrow.
   

   
   
5. How can the training program I represent become Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) approved?
   
   

   Training Providers can apply to become a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Eligible Training provider by filling out an application. This application will have to be approved by their Local Workforce Innovation Board.

   If you are interested in becoming a WIOA Eligible Training Provider, please refer to these instructions.
   

   
   

6. Is there a penalty for not completing a program that is WIOA funded?
   
   

   ​Persons that do not complete WIOA-funded services have not been assessed a fee nor are required to pay for services provided. However, an individual that does not complete their services is likely to face a higher level of review if he or she seeks to re-enroll in WIOA in the future. The circumstances that led a person to withdraw from the program before completion will be reviewed, and may affect being declared eligible to be re-admitted to the program. Certain circumstances, mainly those outside of one's control, such as illness or family emergency, will be viewed differently than simply dropping out. Likewise, the manner of withdrawal could impact this review. For example, working with one's case manager to explore all options to address pressures before the withdrawal will be viewed differently than dropping out and breaking off communication.
   

   
   

7. What can be used to show compliance with Selective Service when receiving WIOA funding?
   
   

   ​The following items can be used to show compliance with Selective Service:
   

   • Selective Service Registration Card
   • Selective Service Verification Form
   • Stamped Post Office Receipt of Registration
   • DD-214/Report of Transfer or Discharge
   • Career Planner may contact the Selective Service at 847-688-6888
   • Selective Service Registration Record (Form 3A)
   • Acknowledgment Letter
   • SDA/State Registration Process
   • Selective Service Advisory Opinion Letter
   • Selective Service Website
     
   • Locally Approved Selective Service Waiver
     

   
   

8. What does WIOA do?
   
   

   ​Public Law 113-128, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), replaced the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 to authorize the federal workforce programs in 2015. WIOA modernizes the nation’s workforce system and emphasizes the demand-driven approach that Illinois has developed over the past several years. Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity coordinates with state and local workforce and economic development partners to implement requirements associated with the two-year implementation of WIOA in coordination with the Illinois Economic Development Plan (published by Commerce in July 2014).
   

   WIOA requires strategic coordination of four core programs:

   1. Employment and training services for adults, dislocated workers, and youth
      
   2. Wagner-Peyser employment services
      
   3. Adult education and literacy programs
      
   4. Vocational Rehabilitation programs serving individuals with disabilities in obtaining employment
      

   
   
9. Will I receive a refund check if I am approved for WIOA (similar to Financial Aid)?
   
   
   Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds are not provided to an eligible participant as a grant. Career Planners in the local Illinois workNet (IwN) Centers work with each individual to determine if they are in need of and are eligible for WIOA services. Career Planners may determine whether training services are appropriate if, after a thorough, comprehensive assessment (interview, evaluation, and formal assessments) with a participant which is used to develop a career plan, it is determined the individual needs training to obtain or retain employment that leads to self-sufficiency or higher wages.
   

   
   

   Training services, when determined appropriate, must be provided through an Individual Training Account (ITA), which is used by the WIOA Title IB program to pay for a training program that is on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) and has been selected by a participant in consultation with a career planner. The selection of training services should be conducted in a manner that maximizes consumer choice, is linked to in-demand occupations on the current Demand Occupation Training List (DOTL), is informed by the performance of relevant training providers, and is coordinated to the extent possible with other sources of assistance, including federal Pell Grants.
   

   
   

   A WIOA participant may enroll in WIOA-funded training while his/her application for a Pell Grant (or another funding source) is pending as long as the WIOA Title IB program has made arrangements with the training provider and the WIOA participant regarding allocation of the Pell Grant (or another funding source) if it is subsequently awarded. The training provider must reimburse the WIOA Title IB program the WIOA funds used to underwrite the training for the amount the Pell Grant (or other funding sources) covers, including any education fees the training provider charges to attend training. Reimbursement is not required from the portion of Pell Grant (or other funding sources) assistance disbursed to the WIOA participant for education-related expenses.
   

   
   
10. Will WIOA help pay for a school that is not accredited yet?
    
    

    ​No, WIOA funding is only available for training programs and providers that are approved by Local Workforce Innovation Boards. Approved WIOA training programs and providers meet requirements (such as leading to a high-demand occupation in Illinois). Use the WIOA Approved Training Programs Search to find approved WIOA training programs and providers.