The economic decline first noticeable in the travel and hotel industries has begun to spread, much like the seemingly intractable coronavirus, to every sector of commerce across the globe.
With the downturn, economic experts have predicted job loss will be at an all-time high. Several companies have announced layoffs and furloughs, including Marriott International Inc. and major automakers including Ford, due to the sweeping loss of consumer traction in the midst of the health pandemic, which has now affected more than 680,000 people across the country
According to an NPR/Marist poll conducted last month, 18% of households already reported someone being laid off or having hours reduced because of the coronavirus outbreak, with women hit harder (21%) than men (16%), and people who earn less than $50,000 hit harder (25%) than those earning $50,000 or more (14%).
For those affected by these layoffs, unemployment may be something they are considering for the first time.
Below is some information about how to file an unemployment claim.
Things to know before you file. You can file if:
- You are totally separated from your job
- You have a job, however, your employer has reduced your hours of work
- You have lost your regular full-time job but are still working a part-time or temporary job where you earn less than your weekly benefit amount
- You are working part-time or reduced hours while receiving UI and a total separation has happened.
You’ll need:
- Social Security number
- Your driver's license, if you have one
- Your bank's routing number and account number
- Your work information history for the last 18 months.
What’s not available?
Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) is not available under Georgia state or federal law.
State Extended Benefits (SEB) are not available under Georgia state or federal law.
“Employers are required to file partial claims on behalf of their employees whenever it is necessary to temporarily reduce work hours or there is no work available for a short period,” the department said on its website. “Any employer found to be in violation of this rule will be required to reimburse GDOL for the full amount of unemployment insurance benefits paid to the employee.”
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