Workers in Berrien and Brooks Counties have until Friday, November 3, 2023, to file initial claims for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) benefits to compensate for income lost as a direct result of Hurricane Idalia, which occurred on August 30, 2023.

"The heavy damage that results from natural disasters often forces businesses to close for repairs, leaving owners and employees without incomes," said Labor Commissioner Bruce 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 business people, 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 September 3, 2023. Individuals in the authorized counties who were directly affected by Hurricane Idalia must first apply for regular unemployment insurance on the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) website at dol.georgia.gov or in person at any career center. The GDOL will notify claimants if they are also eligible to file for DUA. Eligible claimants must apply for these benefits no later than Friday, November 3, 2023.

When applying for DUA benefits, verification of income may 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 recently 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 breadwinners or who provide major financial support for a household because the head of the household died as a direct result of the hurricane. Individuals applying for benefits under such circumstances must present proof of the death of the head of the 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 customer service line at 1-877-709-8185.

Contact the Georgia Department of Labor Communications Office
[email protected]
(404) 232-3685

Media Contact: Director of Communications, Shawna Mercer
Email: [email protected]
Phone Number: 678-350-6878

For personalized assistance, employers can reach Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) staff at https://dol.georgia.gov/email-us. For more information on unemployment benefits, claimants should call 877.709.8185 or visit their MyUI Claimant Portal. GDOL's Career Centers also provide in-person unemployment insurance benefit services for customers statewide.

For more information on jobs and current labor force data, visit Georgia LaborMarket Explorer to view a comprehensive report.