State Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said today that workers in seven Georgia counties may now be eligible for federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) to compensate for income lost as a direct result of the severe storms on January 12.

The affected counties are Butts, Henry, Jasper, Meriwether, Newton, Spalding, and Troup. Presently, these are the only counties authorized for DUA benefits.

“The heavy damage that results from natural disasters often forces businesses to close for repairs, leaving owners and employees without incomes,” said Commissioner Thompson. “These federal unemployment benefits help provide a financial bridge until their incomes resume.”

DUA is a federal program established to help workers whose primary income is lost, or interrupted, as a direct result of a disaster declared by the President. It differs from regular state unemployment insurance in that it provides benefits to people who are self-employed, farmers, diversified farming operators, loggers, commission-paid employees, and others who are not eligible under the state’s program.

Applicants may be eligible for a weekly benefit of as much as $365 beginning the week of January 15. Individuals in the authorized counties who were directly affected by the severe storms must first apply for regular unemployment insurance on the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) website at dol.georgia.gov or in-person at any GDOL career center. The GDOL will notify claimants if they are also eligible to file for DUA. Eligible claimants must apply for DUA no later than Friday, February 17, 2023.

When applying for DUA benefits, verification of income will be required. Applicants should be prepared to provide proof of earnings for the most recently completed tax year. Acceptable proof of earnings includes copies of most recent completed income tax returns, copies of quarterly estimated income tax payment records, or similar documents.

DUA benefits may also be available to individuals who become the breadwinner, or who provide major financial support, for a household because the head of household died as a direct result of the severe storm. Individuals applying for benefits under such circumstances must present proof of the death of the head of household, such as a death certificate or affidavit.

While applications may be filed in person at any GDOL career center, individuals are encouraged to apply on the GDOL website at dol.georgia.gov. To find additional information on DUA and the GDOL career center locations, visit dol.georgia.gov or call the GDOL toll-free at 1-877-709-8185.