North Georgia Flooding - Unemployment Assistance

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) is closely monitoring the impacts of the flooding that occurred in the McCaysville area on November 5, 2026.

On November 5, Gov. Brian Kemp declared a State of Emergency for Fannin, Gilmer, Murray and Union counties to support response and recovery efforts.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is not available at this time. DUA can only be made available when the President declares a disaster that includes Individual Assistance for affected individuals. A federal declaration authorizing Individual Assistance has not been issued at this time.

Individuals whose ability to work has been impacted by the flooding may apply for regular unemployment benefits. However, claims cannot be processed under a disaster-related reason unless the President issues the required federal disaster declaration.

Employers impacted by the flooding may submit employer-filed claims on behalf of their employees through the GDOL Employer Portal. Employers may also advise affected employees to file individual claims.

Workers seeking unemployment assistance may visit the Blue Ridge Career Center for in-person assistance or apply online through the MyUI Claimant Portal.

GDOL will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as additional information becomes available.