The Court Still Pays You
Yes, your employment status does not matter to the court. If you are unemployed, you will still receive the standard daily juror stipend (e.g., $15/day) and any applicable mileage reimbursement. In fact, in some states like Florida, unemployed jurors get paid by the court immediately, whereas employed jurors might not.
Impact on Unemployment Benefits
Here is the tricky part. To collect unemployment, you usually have to certify each week that you are 'ready, willing, and able to work.' If you are sitting on a jury, technically you aren't available to interview or accept a job. However, most state unemployment offices have specific waivers for jury duty. You must report that you were on jury duty when you file your weekly claim, and they will usually continue your benefits uninterrupted.
Can You Get Excused?
If serving on a jury would severely hinder your ability to find a job, or if you simply cannot afford the gas to get to the courthouse, you can write a letter to the judge. Explain that you are currently on unemployment and actively interviewing, and serving would cause undue hardship.