It can be devastating financially and emotionally to be laid off. When you add on the additional stress that COVID-19 presents, the circumstances can be overwhelming. To help with this, the President recently signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act, which expands access to funds for unemployment benefits.
There are several new programs that may affect your ability to receive unemployment. For example, if you are self-employed, an independent contractor, or would not otherwise be entitled to unemployment, then you may be eligible for unemployment assistance through the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (“PUA”). There are some exceptions, like if you can continue your job by teleworking, so it is important to make sure you are eligible before applying.
Pandemic Unemployment Compensation increases unemployment benefits by an additional $600.00 per week until July 31, 2020. Only certain states are participating, so it is important to verify what has been made available to those where you live to receive the maximum amount of unemployment you are entitled to based on your specific circumstances. If in doubt, we are here to help.
Finally, the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation allows for an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits until December 31, 2020. Again, this is only available to individuals in participating states and they must have exhausted their unemployment compensation, do not currently qualify for unemployment, and are able, available, and actively seeking work.
Pat is one of the founding members of PLG. He handles litigation matters of all kinds in DC, Maryland, and Virginia (the DMV). Additionally, he has extensive experience handling employment law matters. Call PLG today at 301-952-9000 to schedule a consultation. Don't try to navigate the tricky and confusing process of applying for unemployment by yourself!
DISCLAIMER: The information above is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice for any particular situation. No attorney-client relationship is intended or created by this information and may not be relied upon based on the above-statements. Each individual situation is different and therefore a consultation is necessary before any advice can be relied upon as appropriate and accurate for your situation. This information is current as of April 6, 2020.
