This guide helps readers better understand the changes put in place by the federal CARES Act and how to apply for unemployment insurance benefits online or over the phone in Alabama. Readers will also learn other uses for the online claim system, including filing weekly claims or where to find the 1099-G tax forms.
On March 27, The CARES Act, also known as Pandemic Unemployment Assistance changed unemployment insurance (UI) in three ways. First, it increased the usually amount of benefits received by a claimant by as much as $600 per week. Second, it covers individuals who would not normally receive UI benefits, including self-employed (gig economy workers), nonprofit employees, and government employees for up to 39 weeks. Finally, the Act provides an additional 13 weeks of benefits for individuals who have already exhausted their regular UI benefits. Check out the Alabama Department of Labor website to keep up with the latest news and developments regarding the DOL and COVID-19.
Individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own can receive UI benefits in Alabama. If your employer shut down operations, you may be eligible. If you are already receiving unemployment insurance benefits, there is no need to reapply. Pandemic Unemployment Assistance will be automatically available to claimants already approved to receive benefits.
You will need to provide your personal information and the names of all the employers (as they show on your pay stubs) and dates of employment dating back to October 2018. You'll also need your latest tax information, from either 2018 or 2019. If you are self-employed, you may be requested to provide more details about your business after you've filed your initial UI application.
To start a new unemployment insurance claim or log in to your existing account, go to the Alabama Online UI Claim System or file your claim over the phone by calling the Alabama Department of Labor Customer Service. When using the online system, you can submit your weekly claim certificates, update personal information, and track the status of your UI benefits. Claimants will also find 1099-G tax information and an option to request paper copies of your UI claims.
If you're approved, you won't receive any kind of written notification in the mail. However, if you aren't approved, you will receive a Notice of Determination. Payments can take up to 21 days to process, but it is usually received sooner, especially if you set up direct deposit as your payment method. If a debit card is your preferred method of payment and you are applying for the first time, you will need to wait for your card to arrive in the mail.
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