Nov. 14 is new deadline for disaster relief

Must be unable to work due to Irma

Florida’s Department of Economic Opportunity has again extended the deadline to apply for disaster unemployment assistance. The new deadline is Nov. 14.

The previous deadline was Oct. 31.

Workers and the self-employed who lost income due to Hurricane Irma’s damage in Florida can apply for disaster assistance if they are unable to work or provide services because of physical damage, including no electricity, or destruction to their place of employment as a result of the hurricane.

But if you’ve returned to work since the hurricane, you are no longer eligible for the benefits, according to Karen Smith, DEO spokeswoman.

DUA claims have been high in South Florida because the region has a large number of hourly workers in restaurants and other hospitality jobs, said Mason Jackson, president of CareerSource Broward. Hourly wages don’t have to be paid when a business is closed because of a disaster.

Those approved for disaster unemployment assistance receive the standard unemployment amount from the state, up to $275 a week. Applicants can’t already be collecting regular unemployment benefits.

Applicants need to establish that the work or selfemployment was their principal source of income or that they became the breadwinner or major supporter of a household because of the death of the head of household. Proof of employment and wages is required for the benefits.

DEO said each claim will be reviewed case-by-case. Recipients are paid via DEO debit card or direct deposit.

Disaster unemployment