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FROM STAFF REPORTS

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington announced on Monday, March 16, that Alabama workers who are not able to work due to COVID-19 will be eligible to file for unemployment benefits.

Based on current guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor, the Alabama Department of Labor is modifying existing unemployment compensation rules to allow workers to file a claim for unemployment compensation benefits who are affected in any of the following ways:

• Those who are quarantined by a medical professional or a government agency.
• Those who are laid off or sent home without pay for an extended period by their employer due to COVID-19 concerns.
• Those who are diagnosed with COVID-19.
• Or, those who are caring for an immediate family member who is diagnosed with COVID-19.

The requirement that a laid-off worker be “able and available” to work while receiving unemployment compensation benefits has been modified for claimants who are affected by COVID-19 in any of the situations listed above. Additionally, claimants will also not have to search for other work provided they take reasonable steps to preserve their ability to come back to that job when the quarantine is lifted or the illness subsides. The waiting week, which is typically the first week of compensable benefits, will also be waived.

Certain criteria and exceptions may apply, and are subject to change. Verification of illness or quarantine may be required.

Workers can file for benefits online at www.labor.alabama.gov or by calling 1-866-234-5382. Online filing is encouraged.

Those who are not eligible

People who are being paid to work from home, or those receiving paid sick or vacation leave are NOT eligible for unemployment compensation benefits, regardless if they experience any or all of the situations listed above.

Claimants can begin filing these claims on Monday, March 23, 2020.

“Many changes are happening quickly with regards to Alabama’s workforce, and it’s important to ensure that we are offering as many available options to those who find themselves in different employment situations,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “As always, we stand ready to assist Alabama’s workers in any way we possibly can.”

“We understand that we are entering a difficult time for workers and employers,” said Secretary Fitzgerald Washington. “We want to help those who may be temporarily financially impacted by helping them to replace some of their lost income while being unable to work. We are working with both federal and state government to ensure that we are doing all that we can to help ease the burden during a potentially trying time.”

Employers who decide to shut down due to causes related to COVID-19 should treat the shutdown as a temporary layoff.

These rules are subject to change pending congressional action.

Please see the attached Frequently Asked Questions for more details.