Impacted by Georgia’s recent storms? You could be eligible for cash

The deadline to apply for unemployment assistance for workers impacted by Jan. 12′s severe storm is quickly approaching.

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced in January that workers in seven counties impacted by the Jan. 12 deadly storm can apply for unemployment assistance.

The deadline for workers in Butts, Henry, Jasper, Meriwether, Newton, Spalding, and Troup County to apply for their benefits is Friday, February 17.

“The heavy damage that results from natural disasters often forces businesses to close for repairs, leaving owners and employees without incomes,” State Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson said. “These federal unemployment benefits help provide a financial bridge until their incomes resume.”

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The state says this form of assistance is different from regular insurance because 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.

“We appreciate the federal government providing disaster relief to our friends and family who live in the seven counties affected by January’s severe storms,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “We hope this helps people get back on their feet and back to work.”

Applicants may be eligible for a weekly benefit of as much as $365 and must verify their income when applying.

Applications can be filed in person at any GDOL career center, but are encouraged to apply online.

For additional information, click here or call the GDOL toll-free at 1-877-709-8185.

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