FloridaCommerce has announced the availability of Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for individuals and businesses affected by Hurricane Helene. This assistance is aimed at those whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted due to the hurricane and who do not qualify for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Eligible residents are encouraged to submit claims through FloridaJobs.org.
Applications for DUA are being accepted from residents and businesses in multiple counties, including Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwanee, Taylor, and Wakulla.
The usual requirements for work search reporting and waiting weeks have been waived temporarily in FEMA disaster-declared counties to expedite access to assistance. This waiver aims to ensure that eligible Floridians can quickly apply for both Reemployment Assistance and Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits.
DUA eligibility extends to those unable to receive other unemployment benefits if they meet specific conditions related to the disaster's impact on their employment status. These conditions include being unemployed directly because of the disaster or being unable to start a job due to it.
Assistance will be available for unemployment weeks starting September 29 until March 29 of next year. Claims must be submitted by December 2; however, Gulf County has an extended deadline until December 3.
To file a claim for DUA benefits or seek further information about the process and requirements—including necessary documentation—applicants can visit www.FloridaJobs.org or contact local CareerSource Career Centers. Additionally, customer service representatives are accessible via phone during weekdays.
Late applications may result in denial unless justified with good cause. Required documentation includes Social Security numbers and proof of prior employment impacted by the hurricane. Additional documents might be requested based on individual circumstances.