FloridaCommerce has announced an extension for the deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for those affected by Hurricane Helene. The U.S. Department of Labor determined that the application period should be extended in accordance with federal law and guidance. DUA is available to residents whose employment or self-employment was disrupted due to the hurricane and who are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits.
Applications are being accepted from residents and businesses in various counties, including Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, DeSoto, Duval, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Putnam Sarasota Suwanee Taylor Union Wakulla Counties.
Certain requirements have been temporarily waived for those impacted by Hurricane Helene in FEMA disaster-declared counties. These include work search reporting and waiting week requirements.
DUA is intended for individuals who meet specific criteria such as being unemployed directly due to the disaster or unable to reach their job because of travel restrictions through affected areas. It is also available to those who became primary breadwinners after a household head died due to the disaster or cannot work because of an injury related to it.
The assistance covers weeks of unemployment from September 29th through March 29th next year if unemployment continues as a result of the disaster in designated areas. Claims must be submitted by January 7th.
To file a claim visit FloridaJobs.org select "File a Claim," visit a local CareerSource Career Center call 1-800-385-3920 during business hours Monday through Friday For information on DUA claims call 1-833-FL-APPLY speak with a representative.
Late applications may be denied unless there is good cause. Applicants need to provide their Social Security number check stubs documentation supporting their employment status at the time of the disaster Additional documentation might be required within 21 days from filing.