What is different and what is substantially the same with the new Federal CARES Act for unemployment benefits?
Normally in Massachusetts, unemployment benefits would not extend to 1099, contract based, or self employed individuals. However, under the Federal CARES Act, benefits may have been extended to those employees. Benefits may also be extended to individuals who have exhausted their benefits, and those who have insufficient earnings to qualify for benefits. The CARES Act goes further to supplement unemployment benefits by an additional $600. However, Massachusetts is still unsure how this will play out and is seeking more Federal guidance.
According to a recent press release by Mass.gov, until Federal guidance is received regarding the CARES Act application, business rules, eligibility requirements, exceptions, and technical requirements, “benefits under the CARES Act are not yet available in Massachusetts and claimants may not apply for such benefits through UI Online at this time.”
There is a contact form on the website, found here, for anyone experiencing difficulties filing for unemployment. Be careful to note that filling out this form is not filing an unemployment claim. An unemployment claim may be filed here.