Extended Deadline for Disaster Unemployment Assistance in North Carolina
Residents and business owners in parts of North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene have received more time to apply for financial relief. The deadline for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) in 39 counties, along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, has been pushed to March 10, 2025.
The decision to extend the application period aligns with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s timelines, ensuring continued support for those impacted by the hurricane. Individuals can submit their applications at des.nc.gov.
Counties Eligible for Assistance
DUA benefits are available to residents of various North Carolina counties, including Alexander, Buncombe, and Mecklenburg, among others. Those residing in these counties who have lost their jobs directly due to Hurricane Helene might qualify for unemployment benefits under the DUA program. Additionally, business owners affected by the storm may also be eligible.
Understanding DUA Benefits
Eligible individuals can receive DUA benefits for weeks of unemployment starting from September 29, 2024, with support continuing for up to 26 weeks, or until March 29, 2025. However, eligibility is assessed on a weekly basis, requiring continued joblessness as a direct consequence of the disaster.
Steps to Apply for DUA
- First, apply for state unemployment benefits. If you’re ineligible for regular benefits or have exhausted them, you might qualify for DUA.
- Gather necessary information, including:
- The name and address of all employers you’ve worked with in the past 24 months.
- Your county of residence and employment.
- Your mailing address and ZIP code.
- A valid telephone number.
- Your Social Security number or Alien Registration number.
- Proof of employment and income if self-employed, a farmer, or a commercial fisher.
- Submit all required documentation within 21 days of filing your DUA application. If you cannot access your documents due to the hurricane, you may permit the N.C. Department of Revenue to provide your 2023 tax return to the Division of Employment Security.
For assistance, you can contact the DUA Hotline at 919-629-3857 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Further details are available at des.nc.gov/dua.
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