Danbury state Senator Julie Kushner, who chairs the General Assembly's Labor Committee says everyone who is currently out of work due to the pandemic is encouraged to file for unemployment as soon as possible. Connecticut is one of six states that doesn’t have a waiting period for workers eligible to receive benefits.
Kushner noted that people should make sure their employer provides a RETURN TO WORK DATE even if that date needs to be extended later. A return to work date on documentation from employers allows the Department of Labor to automatically process an application.
School employees who might otherwise be ineligible for unemployment during school breaks and summer vacation are eligible if furloughed or laid off because of school closings.
If an employer only permits you to work part-time instead of full-time, you may be eligible for partial unemployment during this public health situation. The Department of Labor is suspending work search requirements for unemployment benefits. Furloughed employees are eligible for at least six weeks of benefits.
Kushner says prorated unemployment benefits, up to 60%, are available to eligible employees who have their hours cut due to the current public health emergency.
Governor Lamont has authorized overtime to process claims and assist Connecticut workers. She notes that state Department of Labor employees will also be working on Saturdays to deal with claims.
