The application must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the beginning of the season, but not more than one year in advance of the season. The certification process is annual - employers must reapply for seasonal certification each year.
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- This page, Apply for seasonal employment certification, is offered by
- Department of Unemployment Assistance
Apply for seasonal employment certification
Seasonal status precludes employers from being liable for unemployment benefits directly associated with seasonal work. Wages earned in a seasonally certified occupation will not be used to establish an unemployment claim if all the criteria are met.
Contact for Apply for seasonal employment certification
DUA Seasonal Employment Unit
The Details of Apply for seasonal employment certification
What you need for Apply for seasonal employment certification
When you submit an application for certified seasonal status, you must include brief (but detailed) job descriptions for the positions being requested as seasonal. Please do not submit brochures or job applications - they will not fulfill this requirement.
For example, "support staff" is too generic. The Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) requires more detail.
Please note that you must submit a written application to DUA at least 60 days prior to the beginning of the season, but not more than one year in advance of the season.
The certification process is annual. Failure to reapply for seasonal certification each year will result in the use of all wages paid during the base period in the establishment of benefit claims.
How to apply Apply for seasonal employment certification
- Print and complete the application for certification as a seasonal employer.
- Send your completed application with brief, detailed job descriptions to the following email address: DUASeasonalCert@mass.gov
- Please direct attention to the Certified Seasonal Unit.
Next steps for Apply for seasonal employment certification
Read the Guide to seasonal employment certification
For information about what happens after you submit an application, read the Guide to seasonal employment certification. The guide contains information about the following:
- What is seasonal employment?
- Applying for seasonal employment
- Maintaining certified seasonal status
- Responsibilities when a claim is filed
- Financial responsibility
More info for Apply for seasonal employment certification
Seasonal employment over 20 weeks
If the seasonal employment equals or exceeds 20 weeks in a calendar year, you must notify DUA within 5 days after completion of the 20th week of employment. A redetermination will be issued and seasonal status will be revoked.
Appealing a seasonal certification determination
If you are denied seasonal certification status, you have the right to appeal DUA's determination within 10 calendar days of the mailing date on the determination.