Note:This article has been updated to reflect the new programs and provisions in the second stimulus package.
For the first time nationally, independent contractors and gig workers can receive unemployment benefits through Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.
Depending on your state, PUA effectively expired on Dec. 26 or 27.
However, some states had to pause making PUA payments as they implemented the new rules.
This guide will explain everything you gotta know about Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.
Heres a look at whats included.
(Click a link to jump to the section you need.)
Our team has compiled alist of creative waysyou can fatten your bank account this week.
This is a long list, so dont get overwhelmed.
Go ahead and start now, but be sure to bookmark this post so you could easily return later.
Well keep it updated as offers changes or expire.
What Is Pandemic Unemployment Assistance?
PUA grants unemployment benefits to people who dont typically qualify for their states regular unemployment program.
This $300 boost is known as Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).
The second stimulus package extended PUA to 50 weeks total or 11 extra weeks.
PUA now sunsets on March 14, 2021, unless extended by Congress and the Biden administration.
One new and notable limitation: PUA used to be available retroactively as far back as January 2020.
All PUA recipients should be expecting to file more paperwork, too.
The exact documents needed will be determined by your state agency, which is required to notify you.
The deadline to file those documents is March 27, 2021.
Defer to your states deadline if different.
Only 15 states have separate PUA applications.
Heres how we broke it down on the map.
General Unemployment
To determine PUA eligibility, most states funnel applicants through the Unemployment Insurance system first.
Those states require you to file two applications: state unemployment first, then PUA.
In such states, you must get denied Unemployment Insurance (UI)beforeapplying for PUA.
PUA
States marked in light blue have a PUA software separate from the regular Unemployment Insurance system.
For freelancers and independent contractors, it may be difficult to compile everything.
Include as much as possible.
Hiccups should be expected while applying for, asking about or submitting documents related to PUA.
Many gig workers and independent contractors warn of website crashes, unavailable customer service, confusing questionnaires and more.
Adam Hardy is a staff writer at The Penny Hoarder.
He covers the gig economy, entrepreneurship and unique ways to make money.
Read his latest articles here, or say hi on Twitter@hardyjournalism.
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