The Division of Employment Security is in an extremely heavy workload period due to an increase in new claims being filed and the federal government's extension of unemployment benefits. The time it takes to determine eligibility for benefits has increased if you were separated from work for any reason other than a lack of work. The investigation process is currently taking six to eight weeks.
Beginning Monday, October 20, 2008 and until further notice, the Regional Claims Centers are extending the time they will be answering calls. Representatives will be answering calls from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday-Friday.
Federal legislation was passed in July 2008 which provides up to 13 weeks of extended unemployment insurance benefits for those who have exhausted a regular unemployment claim. The initial application for these extended benefits must be filed by telephone through a Regional Claims Center. Due to the high volume of telephone calls, you will experience a wait on the phone to speak with a representative. We appreciate your patience during this time of extended benefits. Once your initial application for extended benefits is processed, the weekly certification (claim) can be filed using either the Division of Employment Security's Internet site or automated telephone system.
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About Us
Unemployment Council
