Unemployment Benefits during COVID-19~ 3 min read
Have you lost your job or were furloughed due to COVID-19? You are not alone. Millions of Americans have already filed for unemployment due to the coronavirus pandemic. Congress recently approved a relief package designed to alleviate some of the economic downfall as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
On March 27, 2020, the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, a $2 trillion coronavirus emergency stimulus package, was signed into law to provide loan and grant programs for small businesses; expand unemployment benefits to include those not typically eligible for unemployment, furloughed, gig workers, freelancers and self-employed; direct payments to families of $1,200.00 per adult and $500 per child for households making up to $75,000; provide funding to hospitals, health care systems, and providers; provide funds for loans to corporate America; and providing other financial support plans. The plan also allows individuals who are directly affected by the disease or facing economic hardship as a result of the pandemic to borrow up to $100,000 from their retirement plans without receiving the normal early withdraw tax penalty.
On April 4, 2020, Missouri received guidance for the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program, which is an emergency program established by the CARES Act, that provides a $600 payment per week, in addition to the weekly benefit amount received from other employment compensation programs, to those eligible for regular employment benefits. The CARES Act also established the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program (PEUC), which extends unemployment benefits for an extra 13 weeks.
If you lost your job, were furloughed, are currently being quarantined, are unable to work due to stay at home orders, or your company closed due to COVID-19, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. When you are ready to file for unemployment benefits, it is always helpful to have the following information available to you:
- Employer’s name, address and telephone number
- Documentation regarding your income and status of employment
- When you began your employment, the last day of your employment, and reason for leaving
- Home address, email address, and telephone number
- Social Security Number
- Your banking information for direct deposit
You can apply for unemployment benefits in Missouri online here: https://uinteract.labor.mo.gov/benefits/home.do
It is important to remember that the government will never ask you for your personal information (i.e. social security number) or banking information over the phone to give you your financial benefits. If you receive an email, text message or phone call claiming to assist you with your benefits or asking for your banking information, do not respond. Criminals are actively taking advantage of those who are vulnerable and scared, looking for help.
Family Ally is dedicated to helping your family through these extraordinary times. We have implemented procedures designed to help combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and are here for you while working remotely. Our office is fully operational, and we are able to meet all of your needs. Contact our office today at for any questions or for a confidential consultation, call 314-449-9800.
