COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits

https://www.tn.gov/workforce/unemployment.html

https://www.tn.gov/workforce/covid-19/employees.html

If you applied for unemployment benefits, you must complete a weekly certification in order to receive those benefits.

If your employer filed a claim on your behalf, do not file an individual claim. If you are uncertain if your employer has filed a claim, call your employer to confirm.

The fastest and most efficient way to file an unemployment claim is to go to www.Jobs4TN.gov. Due to the high volume of claims because of the COVID-19 emergency, if you file with any other method you could significantly delay the processing of your claim.

• You are required to certify online each Sunday to notify the state you are still not working.
• You can check the status of your claim on your dashboard at Jobs4TN.gov.
• If you are locked out of your Jobs4TN.gov account you may submit a ticket to LWDSupport.tn.gov.
• If your place of employment is temporarily closed due to COVID-19, please indicate a return to work date. If you are unsure of the return to work date, use the date 16 weeks from the day of filing.
• The state can provide your weekly benefit payment through direct deposit or debit card. You can choose which method when you file your claim.
• Your unemployment benefit is considered taxable income. You can choose to have federal taxes deducted from your weekly payment.
• The maximum weekly benefit in Tennessee is $275 before federal taxes are deducted.
• The state determines your weekly benefit based on your earning over the past 18 months.
• When you receive your debit card, if there are issues, you should contact Conduit at 855-462-5887.
• The COVID-19 emergency has created an enormous demand on the unemployment insurance system. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development is doing everything possible to process claims.

FAQ’s on TN Unemployment:

https://www.tennessean.com/story/money/2020/03/17/lost-job-because-coronavirus-tn-unemployment-benefits/5067072002/

When can you file for unemployment?

Workers can file a claim for benefits the day after a job ends or after an employer has significantly cut hours. Visit jobs4tn.gov.

How much can you get on unemployment?

Qualified applicants can receive up to $275 a week for as long as 26 weeks. Wages earned in the past 18 months will be used to calculate weekly benefits and the duration of those benefits.

What do you need to apply?

Applicants will need to present a Social Security number, a driver’s license number, address, phone number and email address. They must also detail their last 18 months of employment, the last day worked and reason why they are no longer in that position. The labor department will contact the applicant’s previous employer, who has seven days to respond.

How long does it take to get paid?

It typically takes 21 days for a claim to process.

For more information, call 844-224-5818, start a live chat at jobs4TN.gov, visit tn.gov/workforce/unemployment or lwdsupport.tn.gov. An app is also available on Google Play and the App Store.

Tennessee Talent Exchange

Gov. Bill Lee announced a new public-private partnership to help match Tennesseans who have lost work with employers undergoing a surge in demand because of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak.

The “Tennessee Talent Exchange” is available at Jobs4TN.gov and it helps streamline the process for posting jobs and finding jobs.

What could federal aid look like?

President Trump signed a $2 trillion relief package on March 27 that aims to soften the blow of the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The legislation includes a one-time payment of $1,200 to adults making $75,000 or less, or $2,400 to couples making $150,000 or less.

RELIEF: What we know (and what we don’t) about checks in coronavirus stimulus package

https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2020/03/24/coronavirus-stimulus-package-checks-congress/2906409001/

How do I get more immediate cash assistance?

The Tennessee Department of Human Services will begin deploying emergency cash assistance to families whose income has been significantly hurt by the COVID-19 outbreak, accessing dollars in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Family program.

Beginning Thursday, March 26, families can apply online for up to two months of assistance, with some families eligible for up to $1,000 a month. Those applying had to be employed as of March 11 and had to have lost a job or experienced a 50% decline in earnings because of the coronavirus impact.

The families must include a child or a pregnant woman and they must have a valid Social Security number.

A household of one or two people can receive $500 a month for two months. A household with three or four people can receive $750 a month, and homes with five or more people can receive $1,000 a month. These benefits are in addition to unemployment benefits an individual can access and existing TANF customers are eligible for the cash assistance as well.

Households can apply online and can expect to receive an approval or denial within five days. If they are approved, they can receive an electronic benefit transfer card within five to seven days of approval by mail. They do not need to call DHS for an interview to apply.

Eligible families cannot have resources available greater than $2,000 and their monthly benefits income cannot be greater than 85% of Tennessee’s median income. That is $2,696 for a household of one and $3,526 for a household of two, $4,356 for a household of three, $5,185 for a household of four and $6,015 for a household of five.

To apply, visit tdhs.service-now.com.

http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/InstructionsForFilingWeeklyClaimsRelatedToCOVID-19.stm

Employers Responsibility

Employers are to provide the following form to all Employee’s in OHIO who are laid off due to the COVID-19 Pandemic in order to expedite the employee’s claim. http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us/forms/num/JFS00671/pdf/

FAQ’s on OH Unemployment

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/news/out-of-work-because-of-coronavirus-heres-how-the-federal-stimulus-affects-ohio-unemployment/ar-BB11VI9M

Applying for unemployment in Ohio? Changes signed into law by President Donald Trump on Friday could increase how much money you might receive.

With at least 430,000 unemployed workers in the state and an unemployment rate that’s likely around 7.4%, many Ohioans are suffering the effects of the novel coronavirus-imposed closures and bans.

The $2 trillion federal stimulus package included some relief for those workers. Here’s how you might benefit.

Am I eligible to apply for unemployment compensation?

You are eligible if you were required to be isolated or quarantined by a medical professional, local health authority or employer because of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus. You do not need to actually be diagnosed with COVID-19 to receive benefits.

You’re also eligible if your employer shut down operations due to the novel coronavirus.

Am I eligible for benefits if I self-quarantine?

In most cases, no. Those who are working from home are not eligible for unemployment. If an employer required workers to stay home but did not offer an option to work remotely or online, the employees might be eligible for unemployment.

How long can I receive unemployment compensation?

Ohio limits payments to a maximum of 26 weeks. Changes approved by Congress add another 13 weeks of payments after state payments end, for a maximum of 39 weeks.

How much money could I receive each week?

You are eligible for up to half of your average weekly wage over 20 weeks. Ohioans are eligible for a maximum of $480 a week through state benefits.

Workers can receive an extra $600 a week through the end of July thanks to the federal stimulus package. That means Ohioans could receive up to $1,080 a week in unemployment compensation.

You must have made at least $269 a week to be eligible. Here’s an estimate of what you might receive from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

I receive a 1099 tax form. Can I apply for unemployment benefits?

Yes, thanks to the new federal stimulus. Ohio is working to handle claims filed by self-employed people. It might take a little time for Ohio to get policies in place to handle these claims.

Still, you should file now because payments will be retroactive to Jan. 27.

Will I get a federal stimulus check?

Congress approved up to $1,200 per person and up to $2,400 for most married couples filing jointly. The amount depends on your total income in 2019 or 2018, the last tax return you filed.

When will my check arrive?

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said it could be as soon as three weeks, but it could take longer.

Part of my wage comes from tips. How do I calculate my weekly wage for unemployment?

Tips are wages and should be reported as earnings.

Employers report quarterly earnings, which include the tips reported by employees for each pay period. Those employer reports are used to determine your average weekly wage.

If you think your employer did not report tips accurately or at all, you might need to file an affidavit with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to review.

I am working fewer hours because restaurants are providing carryout and drive-thru only. Can I apply for benefits?

If you are partially unemployed because of a lack of work, you might be eligible for benefits. However, you would probably receive less money.

Earnings over 20% of the weekly benefit amount will reduce the benefit payment dollar for dollar.

Do I need to try to find another job to receive unemployment compensation?

No. This requirement was waived by the governor.

How do I apply for unemployment?

You can apply online at http://unemployment.ohio.gov or via phone at 1-877-644-6562 or TTY 1-614-387-8408.

The phone lines are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, but state officials recommended filing online if you are able.

What documents will I need to apply for unemployment?

You will need:

• your Social Security number
• driver’s license or state identification number
• your name, address, telephone number and email address
• the name, address, telephone number and dates of employment for each place you worked in the past six weeks
• the reason you became unemployed
• dependents’ names, Social Security numbers and dates of birth
• if you are not a U.S. citizen, your alien registration number and expiration date
• your regular occupation and job skills
• if you worked out-of-state or for the federal government, you might need a DD-214 member 4 copy (military service) or SF-8 or SF-50 form (for federal government employment)

I can’t get through to file my unemployment claim. Will that affect when I get money?

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services’ personnel and systems are overwhelmed, and the number of claims isn’t slowing. Lt. Gov. Jon Husted has said the state is working to improve these problems, but the wait is still long.

Benefits are applied retroactively to when you became eligible, not the date you file the claim.

In the meantime, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services suggests trying off-peak hours.

https://kcc.ky.gov/career/Pages/What%20You%20Need%20To%20Know.aspx

Main Content

For Kentuckians recently made eligible for unemployment insurance (independent contractors, gig-economy workers, childcare workers, etc.), during your application for UI you may receive messages stating that you are not monetarily invalid or have no claimable wages.  Our system is still being updated to accommodate recent eligibility changes and despite these messages, your claim is still being processed for approval.  All individuals recently made eligible and who have applied will begin to be notified of their claim status early next week.​

Claims by Last Name

In order to serve you better, UI claims will be filed on a specific day of the week based on the first letter of your last name. ​

​Apply Online

Website hours:

Monday-Friday – 7 AM – 7 PM ET

Sunday – 10 AM – 9 PM ET

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware of fake unemployment filing websites designed to steal your personal information or charge you a fee.

• ​Make sure you are on a “.ky.gov” website when filing a Kentucky unemployment insurance claim.
• KCC services are free.
• KCC will never charge a fee.
• Only trust unemployment insurance-related emails that are sent from an @ky.gov address. Example: Firstname.Lastname@ky.gov

To File Your Unemployment Insurance Claim You Will Need The Following

Personal Information

• Social Security OR Alien Registration Number
• Date of Birth
• Complete Mailing Address
• Phone Number

Employer Information (For the last 18 months):

• Business/Company Name
• Business/Company Mailing Address
• Business/Company Phone Number
• Dates of Employment
• The reason you are no longer working for EACH employer

Other Information You May Need

• ​If you worked in other states: List of states in which you worked.
• If you worked for a Temporary Agency: Name/Address of Temporary Agency.
• If you worked for the Federal Government: Agency Name; Component name; Copy of your Standard Form (SF8, SF50).
• If you were in the US Military: Copy of your DD214 Member 4.
• If you worked through a skilled trade union: Name of contractor

Are You Eligible?

If you are laid off due to the Coronavirus outbreak, you may be eligible for unemployment insurance.

Waiting Period Suspended

Governor Beshear’s Executive Order means that the seven-day waiting period is temporarily suspended.​

Click on the link below to access the Weekly Unemployment Insurance Benefits Calculator

Weekly Unemployment Insurance Benefits Calculator​

Unemployment Insurance Services

• File or access your unemployment insurance claim
• Request your bi-weekly benefits online​
• Request your bi-weekly benefits by calling the voice response unit at 877-369-5984.
• Access your eligibility review​
• Direct deposit – set up or make changes​​

FAQ’s for Kentucky Unemployment

https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/banks/articles/how-apply-unemployment-kentucky/

Kentucky workers should apply for unemployment if they cannot work due to COVID-19.

Here’s how to determine if you’re able to claim unemployment benefits, and if so, how much you might get.

Do I qualify for unemployment benefits?

Kentucky residents must meet the following requirements to claim unemployment benefits:

1. You’ve lost your income or had your hours drastically reduced through no fault of your own.
2. You must be willing to work and actively seeking work (see note below).
3. Your past earnings must meet certain standards.

Kentucky has waived the work-search requirement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also taken the unprecedented step of opening unemployment benefits to independent contractors and self-employed workers, who are normally not eligible.

The state evaluates your earnings during a base period — the first four of the last five completed quarters before you applied for unemployment. The base period for those who apply in March is October 2018 to September 2019. For those who apply in April, it’s January to December 2019.

Your wages during the base period must check all these boxes to qualify:

1. You must have earned at least $1,500 in one quarter.
2. You must have earned at least $1,500 total, across the other three quarters.
3. Your total base period earnings must be at least 1.5 times your earnings in your highest-earning quarter.
4. Your total wages in your final two quarters must be at least $312 to meet the requirement that your earnings in those quarters be at least eight times the minimum weekly benefit amount.

How do I apply for unemployment benefits?

You can apply for unemployment on the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance website. You’ll need:

• Your Social Security number
• Your mailing address
• The names, addresses, and phone numbers of all your employers during the past 18 months
• The first and last days you worked with all of your employers during the past 18 months
• Bank account details for direct deposit

Due to unusually high demand caused by COVID-19 layoffs, Kentucky is requesting workers apply for unemployment and file their biweekly unemployment claims on a certain day of the week. As of March 30, 2020, here’s when you should file based on the first letter of your last name:

Claims by Last Name

In order to serve you better, UI claims will be filed on a specific day of the week based on the first letter of your last name. ​

​Apply Online

Website hours:

Monday-Friday – 7 AM – 7 PM ET

Sunday – 10 AM – 9 PM ET

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware of fake unemployment filing websites designed to steal your personal information or charge you a fee.

• ​Make sure you are on a “.ky.gov” website when filing a Kentucky unemployment insurance claim.
• KCC services are free.
• KCC will never charge a fee.
• Only trust unemployment insurance-related emails that are sent from an @ky.gov address. Example: Firstname.Lastname@ky.gov

Source: Kentucky Career Center.

After you create your account, you must file claims every other week to receive your benefits. There’s usually a one-week waiting period, but it’s waived during the pandemic.

How much money will I receive in unemployment benefits?

You could receive anywhere from $39 per week to $552 per week in state unemployment benefits. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), passed in late March, will add $600 per week in federally funded unemployment benefits to that number through July 2020. Your weekly state benefit amount (WBA) is 1.1923% of your total base period earnings. Here’s a calculator to help you figure out how much you can expect.

How long can I collect unemployment benefits?

Your maximum benefit amount is the lesser of:

• 26 times your WBA, or
• One-third of your base period earnings

No matter what, you will get at least 15 weeks of benefits, assuming you don’t find new employment that makes you ineligible for unemployment. The CARES Act currently extends that by 13 weeks.

What if my unemployment claim is denied?

You can file an appeal in writing if your unemployment claim is denied. Your appeal must be postmarked within 15 days of the mail date on your denial.

Unemployment benefits won’t solve everything, but it can make the coming months a little easier. Apply on your appointed day this week if you believe you qualify.

Waiting Period Suspended

Governor Beshear’s Executive Order means that the seven-day waiting period is temporarily suspended

Weekly Unemployment Insurance Benefit Calculator

http://apps.kcc.ky.gov/career/WuiCalculator.aspx

Executive Order

https://mdes.ms.gov/unemployment-claims/covid19/

On March 21, 2020, the Governor signed Executive Order No. 1462 due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic to help employees and employers during this state of emergency. The changes associated with this include the following:

• Individuals receiving unemployment benefits will not be required to serve a waiting period week for initial claims filed from March 8, 2020, through June 27, 2020.
• Work search requirements that normally must be met to be considered eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits shall be suspended beginning March 21, 2020, until June 27, 2020.
• All collection activities including, but not limited to, interception of state tax refunds, payment agreements, enrollment of liens, tax garnishments, and claimant overpayment garnishments shall be suspended until June 27, 2020.

Prior to its expiration on June 27, MDES has the discretion to reassess the measures associated with this Executive Order and will modify, continue, or cancel these measures as needed in response to the COVID-19 emergency.

Explaining Executive Order 1462

We’d like to take this time to explain the provisions of Executive Order 1462, which was issued by the Governor on March 21, 2020. In order to provide some clarification on certain points, we have broken down the provisions below:

1. Normally, there is a one-week waiting period after you are deemed eligible for unemployment compensation (or “benefits”) before you can be paid benefits. This means that under normal circumstances, you would not receive benefits for the first week after you file your claim. However, due to the COVID-19 Emergency, anyone who files a claim for benefits between March 8, 2020, and June 27, 2020, will be eligible to receive benefits the first week of their claim, without having to wait an extra week.
2. Normally, to remain eligible for benefits, you must meet certain work search requirements. These include making contact with three (3) employers and filing a job application with at least one (1) employer. However, due to the COVID-19 Emergency, claimants who file for benefits between March 8, 2020, and June 27, 2020, do not have to meet these work search requirements in order to remain eligible for benefits.
3. Normally, MDES has the right to pursue collection activities for any individual or business that owes money to MDES. We can do this through methods such as garnishments on individuals, bank levies on businesses, both state and federal tax refund intercepts, payment agreements, and the enrollment of liens (among other things). However, due to the COVID-19 Emergency, MDES will not attempt to collect any money previously owed to MDES by individuals or businesses until June 27, 2020 (although Employers still need to file contributions during this time). Please note, this does not apply to any garnishments for other businesses or agencies (such as child support payments to the Mississippi Department of Human Services). This only applies to actions by MDES to collect MDES debts.

How to File for Unemployment

http://mdes.ms.gov/unemployment-claims/

More Ways to File COVID-19 Unemployment Claims

https://mdes.ms.gov/unemployment-claims/covid19/update-more-ways-to-file-your-covid-19-claims/

Unemployment Insurance benefits claims can be filed online by clicking here, or by calling 888-844-3577.

If you are experiencing difficulty filing your Unemployment Insurance claim, you may contact your local WIN Job Center for assistance. WIN Job Center lobbies are currently closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Find your local WIN Job Center in the list below.

MDES now offers a fillable Unemployment Application form. Download the form to fill it out and save it to your device.

Once you have completed the form, please email it to: UIClaims@mdes.ms.gov or to your local WIN Job Center. Find your local WIN Job Center in the list below.

https://www.wlbt.com/2020/03/30/mississippi-workers-unable-work-due-covid-can-now-file-unemployment/

The Mississippi Department of Employment Security announced Friday, March 27, 2020 that existing unemployment compensation requirements have been adjusted, allowing more people to file for benefits.

Based on guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor and Governor Tate Reeves, MDES is modifying existing unemployment compensation rules to allow workers to file a claim for unemployment benefits who are affected based upon these measures below:

– Those who are quarantined by a medical professional or a government agency
– Those who are laid off or sent home without pay for an extended period by their employers due to COVID-19 concerns,
– Those who are diagnosed with COVID-19
– Those who are caring for an immediate family member who is diagnosed with COVID-19.

To file an unemployment claim, visit the MDES website or call the MDES Contact Center at 888-844-3577. Online claims can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Please keep in mind that many people are trying to get through so the phone lines and the website may be busy and/or overwhelmed during peak times.

FAQ’s for MS Unemployment

Q: How do I apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits or get more information about the process?

A: To file an Unemployment Claim, visit the MDES website at www.mdes.ms.gov or call the MDES Contact Center at 1-888-844-3577.

On-line filing is encouraged! A claim may be filed on-line at www.mdes.ms.gov twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week. Click here for online Unemployment Services.

Q: When should I file for benefits?

A: If you decide to file a claim for benefits, you should file as soon as possible. Claims are typically effective the Sunday of the week in which you file an initial claim for unemployment.

Q: What information do I need to file?

A: You will need your work history information for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, phone numbers, the reason for separation, and dates of employment; your current contact information; your driver’s license or state ID number and Social Security Card.

Q: Would I be eligible for benefits if my employer shuts down or lays me off because of the COVID-19 situation?

A: You may be eligible and should file for unemployment benefits and a determination will be made concerning your eligibility. Determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Q: Would I be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits if I become ill with the COVID-19 virus and cannot work?

A: Currently, you are required to be physically able to work. Should there be any state or federal declarations related to the COVID-19 virus, MDES is ready to apply any guidelines rendered in accordance with the declaration.

Q: Would I be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits if I am quarantined?

A: If an individual is quarantined and will return to the employer, this individual would be considered laid off. You may file for unemployment benefits and a determination will be made concerning your eligibility. Determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Q: I am a contract worker. I received a Misc-1099 in lieu of a W2. Will I be eligible for unemployment benefits if no work is available for me?

A: Unemployment taxes are not paid on Independent Contractors or the self-employed so these earnings cannot be used to establish a claim for unemployment benefits.  Should there be any state or federal declarations that determines an independent Contractor or self-employed worker eligible resulting from a claim filed related to the COVID-19 virus, MDES is ready to apply any guidelines rendered in the declaration.

Q: Is the coronavirus considered a disaster, and can I receive Disaster Unemployment?

A: Currently, there is no disaster unemployment declaration related to benefits paid as a result of coronavirus. Should there be a federal declaration related to the COVID-19 virus, MDES is ready to apply any guidelines rendered in the declaration.

Q: What type of proof may be required to substantiate a COVID19 claim?

A: No proof is required at this time. Do not delay filing your claim for unemployment benefits even if your employer has not issued you any paperwork. It is important to file as soon as you become unemployed. For faster processing of your claim, please have your employer’s information and a return to work date readily, if one has been provided by your employer.

Q: What if my employer goes out of business permanently as a result of COVID-19?

A: You may be eligible and should apply for unemployment benefits. Determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Q: I was fired from my job because I refused to report to work due to the coronavirus. What can I do?

A: You may file for unemployment benefits and a determination will be made concerning your eligibility based on your specific circumstances. Determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Q: I am unable to work because of a family member’s illness. Can I collect unemployment benefits?

A: Currently, you are required to be able and available to work. Should there be any state or federal declarations related to the COVID-19 virus, MDES is ready to apply any guidelines rendered in the declaration.

Q: If my employer only permits me to work part-time rather than my full-time hours, will I be able to collect unemployment benefits?

A: You should file for benefits as you may be eligible for partial unemployment. Please note: when working and filing, all hours and gross earnings must be reported. A portion of your gross earnings will be deducted from your weekly benefit amount.

Q: What should I select when filing my claim during this Coronavirus pandemic?

A: If you are temporarily laid off due to COVID-19, you should select ‘Lack of Work’ not ‘Leave of Absence” when filing your claim.

Q: How should I answer the questions on the claim application ‘Can you accept full time work immediately?

A: If you are affected by the COVID-19, you should select ‘Yes’.

Q: Is there a charge to file your claim online?

A: No, MDES does not charge a fee or require a credit card or bank account information to file your claim. Please only use www.mdes.ms.gov to file your benefits.

If you have questions or need further assistance regarding your account or your unemployment insurance claim, please contact us at cv19@mdes.ms.gov 

https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/economy/article/Unemployed-in-Texas-by-COVID-19-and-want-your-15167034.php

Update Wednesday, April 1, 3:30 p.m.: The Texas Workforce Commission said it will now backdate unemployment claims to the date that workers were laid off, in an apparent revision to its previous position, remedying the issue of a potential loss in benefits.

Help is on the way from Washington for millions of newly unemployed people in the form of an additional $600 per week to their unemployment benefits as well as aid for independent contractors and the self-employed, who previously didn’t qualify.

How to apply for unemployment assistance

You should apply for benefits as soon as you are unemployed or underemployed because the claim will start the week you complete the application. The state does not pay benefits for the weeks before you applied.

Go to ui.texasworkforce.org or, if you do not have internet access, call 1-800-939-6631 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. central.

https://www.twc.texas.gov/news/unemployment-news

If Your Employment Has Been Affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

If your employment has been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19), apply for benefits either online at any time using Unemployment Benefits Services or by calling TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Central Time Monday through Friday.

TWC is experiencing an increase in call volumes and hold times on our Tele-Center phone lines. You are encouraged to use our online claim portal, Unemployment Benefits Services (UBS ), to handle your claim needs quickly. UBS is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We also encourage you to sign up for Electronic Correspondence so you can receive your TWC communications online as soon as possible.

TWC will investigate why you lost your job and mail a decision explaining whether you are eligible for unemployment benefits.

Note: Extended Benefits (EB) and Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) are not available at this time.

https://www.twc.texas.gov/news/covid-19-resources-job-seekers

COVID-19 Stimulus Bill Update

TWC is taking action to implement the new law and working with the Department of Labor to implement the act while continuing to work tirelessly to process unemployment insurance claims caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

How do you extend your benefits?

• If you recently exhausted benefits, no action is needed from you. We will determine if you qualify and notify you by mail or electronic correspondence of your eligibility.

• We are upgrading our system to adapt to the new legislation. If you attempt to access the system or call prior to receiving notification we will not be able to assist you.

What does the Coronavirus Stimulus Bill mean for me?

• If you are self-employed, a contract worker or previously worked in a position that did not report wages, you may qualify for unemployment!

How do you apply?

• If you applied for unemployment benefits but lacked the necessary wages to qualify, no action is needed. We will determine if you qualify under the new stimulus bill and notify you by mail or electronic correspondence of your eligibility.
• We are upgrading our system to adapt to the new legislation. If you attempt to access the system or call prior to receiving notification, we will not be able to assist you.

Unemployment Benefits

At present, the U.S. government and Texas legislature have not changed any laws or rules concerning unemployment benefits during the pandemic. However, Department of Labor guidance provides that federal law permits significant flexibility for states to provide Unemployment Insurance (UI) services related to COVID-19. Based on this, TWC will be waiving work search requirements for all claimants and the waiting week for those claimants affected by COVID-19. Also, Extended Benefits (EB) and Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) are NOT available at this time.

The Texas Unemployment Insurance (UI) program pays benefits to those individuals who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. TWC determines benefit eligibility based on past wages, why someone lost their job, and ongoing eligibility requirements.