Unemployment Resources

Posted by cmcpherson on 02 April 20

Workers who have recently lost their jobs or have had their hours reduced could be qualified for unemployment benefits. Information in general and changes relating to job loss due COVID-19 can be found at http://www.vec.virginia.gov. Special provisions were passed due to COVID-19. In Virginia, these include:

• The regular one week waiting period to receive benefits is suspended
• The requirement to conduct a weekly job search is also suspended
• Effective as of March 15, 2020.

The Basics:

1. Gather the following information:
   • Your Social Security Number (SSN)
   • Your employer’s name, address, telephone number and dates of all employment within the last 18 months
   • Name, number and contact details of any union to which you belong
   • Your Alien Registration number if you are not a U.S. citizen
   • Banking account information for payment.
2. File new claims online with the Virginia Workforce Connection at https://www.vawc.virginia.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx or call 1-866-832-2363 (M-F between 8:15a and 4:30p).
3. Once you have completed your application, you will receive a PIN and instructions for receiving benefits.

Click UNEMPLOYED to start your online application. Choose Laid Off / Reduction in Force as the reason for your COVID-19 related job loss.

More Information:

• CARES Act
• Q&A on Claims Related to Coronavirus [Virginia Employment Commission]
• FAQ’s – General Unemployment Insurance [Virginia Employment Commission]
• Community Awareness Podcast: How to File Unemployment Insurance During the COVID-19 Pandemic [Virginia Career Works]