Vermonters who lost their jobs as a result of this month's devastating flooding are likely eligible for unemployment assistance through the Vermont Department of Labor, the department's commissioner said Monday.
"If someone's place of employment is closed, and they are not working, they are more than likely eligible for unemployment insurance benefits right out of the gate," said Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington.
Vermonters can call 877-214-3330 and open an unemployment claim — however, Harrington is worried that the call center will become overwhelmed. An online application portal should open Wednesday.
Anyone who can wait and file for unemployment online on Wednesday should do so, Harrington said.
In most cases, the state will not require claimants to prove that they are searching for a new job if they are unemployed for flood-related reasons and expect to get back to work within 10 weeks.
People affected by the flood who aren't typically eligible for traditional unemployment — they are self-employed, for example — should still file through the state's unemployment phone line or website. If they aren't eligible for Vermont unemployment, they may be eligible for the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program, which has not yet launched.
If your job hasn't been impacted, but you are unable to work because of the impact from flooding, you might also be eligible for the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program, Harrington said.
More information about the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program is still to come, and people can sign up for updates on the Department of Labor's website.
Flooding recovery assistance and other key resources
- To apply for federal financial assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
- Is your community under a boil-water notice? Find a statewide list here.
- For state road closure information, visit newengland511.org or @511VT on Twitter. To check the status of your town's local roads, consult your town website or social media.
- School activities and child care program closures are collected here.
- Find the latest forecasts and water levels for specific rivers from the National Weather Service.
- Are you returning to flooded property? Get tips on what to expect and how to stay safe while cleaning your home or car and how to deal with trash and debris.
- Here are tips for avoiding scams that can crop up after a disaster.
- Flood safety tips have been translated into 16 languages here.
- The Vermont Professionals of Color Network is connecting BIPOC Vermonters with recovery assistance.
- Business owners can find tips and resources from Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility.
- To find more resources, visit vermont.gov/flood, vermont211.org or call Vermont 2-1-1.
- You can also report flood damage to 2-1-1 to help the state gather data, according to Vermont Emergency Management. (If you are a homeowner, you should also contact your insurance company.)
- The Vermont Agency of Agriculture has provided a resource page for farmers.
- Find the latest guidance about how to help with recovery.
