(1) The department investigates each separation from insured work that occurred during the six weeks immediately preceding the effective date of an initial or an additional claim. The department shall adjudicate all separations that occurred during the six-week period except:

(a) when the claimant separated from insured work with the same employer more than once, the department shall adjudicate only the last separation involving that employer;

(b) when the claimant is being paid their regular wages during an administrative leave; or

(c) where ARM 24.11.454A applies due to a valid notice.

(2) If the claimant did not separate from insured work during the six-week period, the department shall investigate and adjudicate the claimant's most recent separation from insured work that occurred prior to the six weeks immediately preceding the effective date of the claim.