Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD.

New COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits for Independent Contractors Available

By Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale LTD
May 9, 2020
Covid 19 Unemployment Benefits Independent Contractors

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.

Request A Case Evaluation below. Request A Case Evaluation

Request a Consultation

heading-bottom-graphic

related articles:

heading-bottom-graphic
Category

Client Testimonials

heading-bottom-graphic
I worked with Ann Fischer, not once but twice for my family's immigration visa needs. Both the experiences were immaculate. For those who may want services, I would encourage you if you are in need of the best in class, hasslefree and quality services.I could not have asked for anything better.Thank You Ann Fischer (Gardi, Haught, Fischer, & Bhosale LTD). You were fantastic on both the immigrant visa applications (2021-2023) & (2023-2025).When I started the search, I narrowed down between three immigration attorneys and I am glad I crossed path with the best in their domain.Below is how my experience was in each bracketQuality of Service * * * * * (5/5)Responsiveness * * * * * (5/5)Approachable * * * * * (5/5)Explanation * * * * * (5/5)Timeliness * * * * * (5/5)Consultative * * * * * (5/5)Peace of Mind * * * * * (5/5)I will definitely recommend anyone, looking for their immigration needs.
Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale represented us in a recent R/E closing. Everything went very smoothly between the back office & the other parties. We were informed & the whole process was made simple. I would recommend this firm for all your R/E transactions. 10 out of 10.
Took the time to answer my questions
Our team partnered with Gardi, Haught, Fischer, & Bhosale LTD. on a recent transaction, and we appreciated their dedication and professional approach to closing the deal. We’re looking forward to more successful collaborations ahead
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.
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.
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.
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.
js_loader