Workers in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, and Screven counties have until Monday, November 25, 2024, to file initial claims for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) benefits to compensate for income lost as a direct result of Tropical Storm Debby, which occurred August 4, 2024, through August 20, 2024.

"When natural disasters strike, the devastation can often force businesses to close, leaving owners and employees vulnerable to uncertainty and financial hardship," said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. "In these challenging times, federal unemployment benefits serve as a vital lifeline, providing crucial support to individuals and families when they need it most."

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 August 11, 2024. Individuals in the authorized counties directly affected by Tropical Storm Debby 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 eligible to file for DUA. Eligible claimants must apply for DUA no later than Monday, November 25, 2024.

Income verification may be required when applying for DUA benefits. Applicants should be prepared to provide proof of earnings for the most recently completed tax year. Acceptable proof of earnings includes copies of the most recently completed income tax returns, 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 the household died as a direct result of Tropical Storm Debby. Individuals applying for benefits under such circumstances must present proof of the head of household's death, 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. For 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 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.