NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Federal workers affected by the government shutdown may receieve temporary unemployment benefits, the United States Department of Labor said.
The USDOL reports the state of Tennessee has received applications for unemployment benefits from more than 400 workers since the shutdown began at the end of December.
The state estimates the shutdown is affecting more than 25,000 Tennesseans.
The USDOL has strict requirements that claimants must meet to get aid. For example, a furloughed worker that is free to work meets the requirements. However, if you a federal worker who remains on the job without getting paid, you are ineligible.
Once the shutdown ends, the USDOL reminds claimants that if they are reimbursed any salary for the time they were furloughed, they must pay back the unemployment benefits.
The maximum weekly benefit in the state of Tennessee is $275, and is subject to federal income taxes. The first payment comes to the claimant two weeks after filing.
To learn more about filing for unemployment benefits, click here.
