How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits

Due to COVID-19, there have been many companies closing, workers laid off, and businesses uneasy. If you are one of the workers that have been sent home without an answer, applying for unemployment may be for you. The first thing we want you to know is that we understand and want you to know that we are in a pandemic. There is no shame in getting unemployment because it is your tax dollars coming back around to help you in a time of need. Therefore, if you need help, do yourself and your family a favor and apply for unemployment benefits until you can secure another, stable job. Karla Dennis & Associates wants you to make the most of your situation, and take the help when you need it, so here is how to apply for unemployment benefits: 

Where to apply?

In order to fill out the application online, click here. You will want to make sure to have your essentials, such as your:

-Driver’s License

-Social Security Number

-W-2

-Address and information of previous employers 

-Reason for being laid off or being unemployed

-Salary history 

Once you are on the website, you want to fill out the application for the state where you worked. So, even if you live in another state, and work for another state, or have since moved- you would be applying for the state in which you worked. Every state varies, but most allow you to choose how you would like to get your unemployment benefits. 

Were there any COVID-19 changes made to unemployment?

As many of you may know, Congress recently passed the CARES Act, which was a stimulus package signed into law on March 27, 2020. With this new provision, there have been expansions made to unemployment, and you may qualify if you fall under these categories. 

1. Part-time workers
2. Contract workers (freelance) 
3. Those without enough employment history (to meet traditional standards)

The CARES Act is also making unemployment benefits available longer than normal. They will now be extending benefits from 26 weeks to 39 weeks.

Karla Dennis & Associates wants the best for you and your family. Take the initiative and do what you can for now. It is our hope that soon enough our situation will get better, and we must work together to get back to where we once were.