Nebraska working to implement new pandemic unemployment benefits

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Labor commissioner said he has 45 people working to update the state's software to be able to handle the unemployment changes laid out in the CARES Act.

He said one new program is Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. It is for self-employed people who may not otherwise get unemployment benefits. Commissioner John Albin said when you apply online it will tell you that, but he said don’t panic.

“We have to tell you you’re not eligible for employment, regular unemployment before you can be eligible under the pandemic plan. I know a lot of people will be confused by that. It seems confusing to people,” said Albin on Monday.

He said that group could receive $174 to $400 a week.

They also qualify for the $600 In Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation that others on COVID-19-related unemployment benefits, said Albin. He said you don't have to do anything extra to apply for that. People who apply for other unemployment assistance will be registered for the program.

Albin encouraged workers and employers impacted by COVID-19 to apply online soon.

The state had already waived the usual waiting period to apply. Now, Albin said that will be paid for by the federal government.

Federal dollars will also be funding 100% of the costs of Short Time Compensation during the pandemic, according to Albin. He said this allows employers to reduce employee hours by 10% to 60% while permitting the employees to receive a prorated unemployment benefit.

Albin said the CARES Act also gives workers the potential for 13 extra weeks of benefits.

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