Federal benefits are about to disappear for millions of unemployed workers nationwide, much earlier than expected. See below for the states declaring an end to the extended unemployment benefits, and the dates they will expire.
WHEN WERE BENEFITS SUPPOSED TO END AND WHY ARE SOME ENDING EARLY?
Under the American Rescue Plan that was passed in March, unemployed workers were to receive unemployment benefits through September 6, 2021. The list below shows the states starting to opt out from this federal program which had been extended during the pandemic. Some will lose access to these benefits as early as June 12.
Governors in the states that are ending benefits are concerned the extra money is preventing workers from applying for jobs and saying employers should raise pay to attract workers.
STATES ENDING FEDERAL UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS EARLY
Alabama: June 19
Alaska: June 12
Arizona: July 10*
Arkansas: June 26
Georgia: June 26
Idaho: June 19
Indiana: July 19
Iowa: June 12
Mississippi: June 12
Missouri: June 12
Montana: June 27*
New Hampshire: June 19
North Dakota: June 19
Ohio: June 26
Oklahoma: June 26
South Carolina: end of June
South Dakota: June 26
Tennessee: July 3
Texas: June 26
Utah: June 26
West Virginia: June 19
Wyoming: June 19
*Arizona and Montana are offering additional stipends or return-to-work bonuses with the loss of expanded benefits.
WHAT PROGRAMS ARE AFFECTED BY THE EARLY EXPIRATION?
The Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (PUC) federal supplement of $300 per week
The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits for gig workers not usually eligible for unemployment insurance
The Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) established by the CARES Act for long-term unemployed who have surpassed the standard number of weeks allotted for state benefits
WHAT CAN YOU DO IF THIS AFFECTS YOU?
Cutting any benefits during such uncertain times leaves unemployed workers vulnerable. Here are some things to keep in mind if your benefits are ending early:
You can still qualify for your state’s normal unemployment benefits if you lose your job or remain unemployed. Only the extended federal benefits established during the pandemic are set to expire September 6, or earlier depending on your state.
Stay connected with your local unemployment office. They will always be a source for any updates in new benefits and will be able to let you know what benefits may be available to you. They are also a source for job re-entry programs, training opportunities, and have access to a current job opening database.
The CDC has extended the eviction moratorium until at least June 30. Depending on your state, you may also qualify for rental assistance or utility forgiveness.
Contact any lenders you owe money to and see if you qualify for any of their assistance programs. Most are willing to work with you during this time.
SNAP and TANF, two food assistance programs, can help supplement your spending.
You may qualify for assistance or subsidized care through state and local initiatives for help with affordable childcare.