WorkForce West Virginia has extended the deadline for individuals affected by severe storms to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) benefits. This extension applies to residents and workers in Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood counties, areas designated as major disaster zones on May 24, 2024, following a request from Governor Jim Justice.
From April 11 to April 12, 2024, these counties experienced catastrophic weather, including storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides. The newly established deadline for filing claims is Thursday, August 22, 2024.
DUA benefits are specifically designed for self-employed individuals, including farmers, who generally do not qualify for unemployment insurance. Applicants must submit proof of earnings, such as business records, bank statements, or income tax forms, within 21 days of applying.
Individuals who lost their job as a result of the April disasters can reach WorkForce West Virginia by emailing ucpolicy@wv.gov or by calling 304-558-3340 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Eligible individuals for DUA benefits include:
- Those who cannot access their workplace due to travel restrictions caused by the disaster
- Individuals who were set to begin employment but were hindered by the disaster
- People who became the primary income earners in a household due to the death of the household head as a result of the disaster
- Workers unable to perform their job or self-employment due to injuries directly caused by the disaster
Unemployment must be a direct result of the disaster, which may include:
- Physical damage or destruction at the workplace
- Inaccessibility of the workplace due to government-mandated closure in response to the disaster
- Loss of work or income if a business predominantly earned revenue from an affected area that was damaged or closed by government measures
In addition to assisting with DUA claims, WorkForce West Virginia provides reemployment services, including resume writing, job search help, and job placement. For further assistance or to report fraud, individuals can call 1-800-252-JOBS (5627).
