Gov. Reynolds Announces Workforce Assistance Benefits

Today, Governor Reynolds announced assistance for employees and employers affected by COVID-19 related layoffs.

The Iowa Workforce Development website includes information for employees filing for unemployment insurance claims, as well as information on programs available for employers.

If you are laid off due to COVID-19 or have to stay home to self-isolate, care for family members or due to illness related to COVID-19, you can receive unemployment benefits, provided you meet all other eligibility requirements.

• Those requirements essentially include working for wages from an employer who claims you as an employee in six of the last eighteen months and have earned at least $2,500 in the same time period. More specific explanation of benefit eligibility can be found at: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/2019-unemployment-insurance-claimant-handbook
•         Claimants can expect to receive payment within 7-10 days after the date the claim is filed.
•         Claims that are filed and identified as a direct or indirect result of COVID-19, will not be charged to employers.  Fact-finding interviews for these claims will be waived and not be held although employers will be notified of claims received.
•         IWD will process unemployment insurance payments to ensure payment will continue to be paid in a timely manner.

“The Iowa Workforce Development team is dedicated to providing assistance to employees and employers affected by COVID-19.  Please do not hesitate to contact myself or our team for assistance at 1-866-239-0843,” said Director Townsend.

For more information, visit www.IowaWorkforceDevelopment.gov Updates will be released as they become available.