News
State’s extended unemployment benefit system now taking claims online
By Governor Rell's office
Aug 15, 2008 - 12:03:14 PM

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that approximately 20,000 people may now apply online for up to 13 weeks of extended unemployment benefits while beginning August 20, additional individuals will be able to file using an automated telephone system.

The public may visit the Connecticut Department of Labor’s Web site at www.ct.gov/dol for eligibility criteria and to review the list of Frequently Asked Questions.

“Letters were sent to approximately 20,000 individuals this week notifying them that they may use our online system immediately to apply for the extended benefits,” Governor Rell said. “People must have financial support while seeking new jobs, and during these difficult economic times, 13 additional weeks of unemployment checks will be a welcome relief for those families needing extra time to find new employment. We are dedicated to ensuring that eligible individuals receive these benefits as quickly as possible.”

Additional notices will be mailed later this week informing potential recipients of how they may file for extended benefits by phone. These individuals need to use the Labor Department's automated telephone system since information they provide requires the assistance of a customer service representative to complete the claim process. As online and telephone applications are received, the Labor Department will make determinations regarding eligibility.

“The extended benefits program should help not only families, but also Connecticut’s economy,” Governor Rell said. “The checks will be used for food, shelter and other necessities. For those additional 900 people who exhaust their Connecticut unemployment insurance benefits each week, they also will be able to apply for the extension program if they have not yet found a job.”

Individuals who believe they are eligible for federal extended unemployment benefits and who have not received an instructional notice from the state by August 25 can contact the Labor Department’s Benefits Assistance Center, weekdays, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 1-877-LABOR-11 or 1-877-522-6711.

Unemployment benefits normally last for 26 weeks. In Connecticut, the maximum weekly benefit is $501. For most people who were unemployed when the extended benefits program started on July 6, 2008, eligibility and benefits will be retroactive to that actual start date. Since this is a federal program, employers are not charged for the extended weeks of benefits.

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