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New COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits for Independent Contractors Available

By Samuel Park

For the millions of Americans who classify themselves as “gig workers,” the self-employed, or independent contractors whose business has been impacted by COVID-19, unemployment assistance was not available…till now.

On  May 5, 2020, the Illinois Department of Employment Security (“IDES”) released new instruction for self-employed individuals, business owners, gig-workers and independent contractors (hereinafter known as “Alternative Workers”) who seek unemployment benefits due to loss of work in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) has now expanded benefit eligibility through Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (“PUA”) to offer unemployment benefits to Alternative Workers who were traditionally ineligible for unemployment benefits.

 To apply, Alternative Workers must do the following: 

1. Apply for Unemployment.
   
   If Alternative Workers believe they may be eligible for unemployment under the CARES Act they must first apply for regular unemployment insurance before applying for benefits under PUA. Why? Because PUA is a 100% federally-funded unemployment benefit payout for individuals who are unemployed for specific COVID-19 related reasons and not eligible for Illinois’ regular unemployment insurance program. Receiving a denial for regular unemployment is a mandatory first step in determining eligibility for PUA. Alternative workers are encouraged to apply as soon as IDES opens their new PUA portal on May 11, 2020.
   
   
2. Note the maximum. The CARES Act also provides that under the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program (“PEUC”), Alternative Workers are potentially able to get up to 39 weeks of benefits. PUA Claims will be backdated to the individuals’ first week of unemployment, but no earlier than February 2, 2020 and will continue for as long as the individual remains unemployed due to COVID-19.
   
   
3. Continue to Seek Work. Individuals are required to continue to “be able, available, and looking for work” and must regularly provide updates to IDES regarding their search for work.

Illinois is implementing this new portal based on staggering demand from more than one million people filing for unemployment in Illinois alone. Getting appropriate counsel and assistance in preparing and filing the necessary documentation can expedite the process and result in the largest benefit.

Here at Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD, we understand the difficult position you may be in and are happy to provide help with a free consultation regarding your unemployment insurance issues. Contact Business Attorney Samuel Park today at spark@gardilaw.com  to collect the maximum unemployment benefits available for Alternative Workers affected by COVID-19. 

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Jimmy Su

We just had great experience with Tom Haught and his paralegal Courtney Kropf. The communication is clear and fast. All emails were replied within 30 minutes. We will definitely work with Tom Haught again.

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Was recommended to them from my company. They did an excellent job and always answered all my questions. Were always upfront with all things and made sure I understood everything that was explained to me.

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We used the law firm during the sale of our house. We dealt with Mr Haught and Courtney, who made the process very smooth. They were professional, yet very friendly to deal with.I would not hesitate to recommend them to my family and friends.

vanissa colaco

Our immigration experience with Ann Fischer has been amazing! She has been meticulous, organized and worked on our case in a timely manner. Ann and her team went above and beyond to address all of our concerns and provide a personalized support which made a significant difference during our stressful time.I highly recommend her services to anyone seeking legal representation for their immigration matters.

Mike and Keeley Aulert

We have used Tom Haught for two home purchases and one sale over the years and continue to be impressed by his professionalism, responsiveness, and thoroughness. Reasonable pricing too. Highly, highly recommended.

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Gardi, Haught is one of professional firm, I have been with G&H since last 8 years in all legal matters.RegardsWaseem Chaudhry

Khurram Ghani

Tom and his dedicated crew recently helped me close on a commercial property, and I must say they did an exceptional job! Throughout the entire process, they were incredibly responsive, attentive to detail, and a pleasure to work with. Their professionalism and expertise made the transaction smooth and efficient. I am thoroughly impressed with their performance and definitely plan to work with them again in the near future. I highly recommend Tom and his team for anyone in need of real estate services!

Ryan B

I'd like to thank Gardi, Haught, Fischer, & Bhosale LTD and the whole Team! For amazing service. They made my selling experience fast, easy and at my convenience. I'm very thankful for the whole team over there. Their service meant alot to me and will be using them in the future. 10/10 !

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We worked with Tom and Courtney mainly on our recent closing. While it did not go as planned (all the other side’s issues) they did a great job keeping us informed and in track. Highly recommend.

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