A record 3.3 million Americans filed for unemployment last week. But website crashes and office closures are making it hard to actually get those benefits. Experts advise doing two things: be persistent — and document everything.
A"closed" sign is posted at the entrance of a New York State Department of Labor office in Brooklyn. With millions of people filing for unemployment benefits, state employment agencies have been overwhelmed around the country.A"closed" sign is posted at the entrance of a New York State Department of Labor office in Brooklyn. With millions of people filing for unemployment benefits, state employment agencies have been overwhelmed around the country.
Normally, eligible workers can apply for such benefits through their state offices online, by phone, or in person. But now, some websites are crashing, call-in lines are busy, and — obviously — offices are closed to the public.is expected to pass soon, with a $250 billion expansion of unemployment benefits. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act will give jobless workers an extra $600 a week on top of a state's existing benefits, which range from $200 to $550 a week.
"Unemployment systems have been underfunded for years, and have struggled to provide access to a lot of folks" even before the crisis, says Julia Simon-Mishel, an attorney at Philadelphia Legal Assistance, which serves low-income workers.. For example, now workers are covered if they were laid off because their workplace closed, are quarantined, or are caring for a family member., which has updated information relating to filing during this coronavirus period.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. Contact your legal aid advocates that can help you through the process at low or no cost.Apply for SNAP, Medicaid or other safety-net programs you might qualify for.When it works well, workers can expect to see their first unemployment check arriving two to three weeks after filing their claim, says Simon-Mishel."I would be very surprised if we're at the best-case scenario, given the volumes.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Doctor's Advice for People with Diabetes During the COVID-19 OutbreakFor coronavirus and diabetes, get advice from a medical doctor. You may be especially concerned about the COVID-19 outbreak. Here are some steps an endocrinologist recommends for staying safe.
Read more »
How To Plague: Advice On Elevators, Voting, And Hogging BandwidthWe're trying our best to answer your ethical and social dilemmas about how to live responsibly through this pandemic.
Read more »
Riding Out the COVID-19 Crisis with ADHD: Productivity Advice'A client once told me that, in a zombie apocalypse, her ADHD traits would save her.' Many people with ADHD find that they are clear-headed in a crisis. But what happens when the crisis tells you to stay at home? Use these tips to thrive during this time.
Read more »