Unemployment and COVID-19 – Resource for North Carolina Employees & Employers

While independent contractors and self-employed workers are not typically eligible for unemployment benefits, they may qualify for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance as a result of COVID-19.  

These are certainly unprecedented times.  With the COVID-19 pandemic, many North Carolina employers and families are grappling with unemployment issues.  If you are laid off temporarily, or your hours are reduced due to COVID-19, you may qualify for unemployment.   You can apply online at https://des.nc.gov. or by phone at 888-737-0259.   Due to high call volume it is recommended that you apply on-line.  You will need your social security number, information regarding your most recent employment and pay, your work history for the last two years and a bank account number and routing information for direct deposit.   While independent contractors and self-employed workers are not typically eligible for unemployment benefits, they may qualify for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance as a result of COVID-19.    Employers with questions regarding how to respond to requests for separation as well as qualifying and non-qualifying payments to employees should review the FAQs for Employers on the website below.  

For more information, the North Carolina Division of Employment Security website at https://des.nc.gov.  is a wonderful resource for businesses as well as families who need help.

Take care and stay healthy,

From all of us at Vitale Family Law

Check out our latest blog post on Child Custody During COVID-19 in North Carolina.