Possible TAA/Apprenticeship Scenarios

On July 1, 2022, the termination provision under Section 285(a) of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended, took effect. Until further notice, the US Labor Department may not issue any determinations and may not accept any new petitions or requests for reconsideration. Requests to amend current certifications may still be filed. Current participants in the TAA program, including those in training, will continue to receive services as usual. Workers who were certified and separated from their job on or before June 30, 2022, may still be eligible for benefits and services. See TEGL 13-21 for more details.

Possible TAA/Apprenticeship Scenarios

Scenario 1: Apprenticeship

Expectation of Suitable Employment

If you have an expectation of suitable employment, see below:

TAA participant is matched with an apprenticeship opportunity with assistance from the TAA Coordinator, State Apprenticeship Office, and counselor.
TAA funds can be used toward apprenticeship in the following ways:
- (a) Related instruction (e.g., classroom and distance learning)
- (b) Tools
- (c) Uniforms
- (d) Equipment or books
- (e) On the Job Training (104 weeks max.)
This funding can continue until the worker reaches “suitable employment” or 130 weeks, whichever comes first.
- (a) Suitable employment is defined as: work of substantially equal or higher skill level than the worker’s past adversely affected employment, and wages for such work at not less than 80 percent of the worker’s average weekly wage.

Scenario 2: Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)

Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance (RTAA)

If you are eligible for Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance (RTAA), see below:

TAA-eligible worker is at least 50 years old.
The worker has secured a position as an apprentice in an apprenticeship program.
Annualized earnings less than $50,000 annually.
The benefit:
- (a) As s/he continues to work through the apprenticeship levels, s/he will receive a benefit to help her/him continue the apprenticeship program. The benefit may total 50% of the difference between the old and new wage.
- (b) These payments can be made for up to 2 years, but must not exceed a total of $10,000 and must be stopped if the participant’s annualized wage, which must be computed monthly, reaches $50,000 or more.
Note that this apprentice is still an active TAA participant, and is receiving benefits (RTAA).

Resources

To learn more about work-based training opportunities for your business, you can either contact the Business Services Specialist (BSS) that you have been working with, or visit the Business Engagement Team's page to find a BSS in your area. Interested in apprenticeship opportunities? The Office of Apprenticeship Training can help.