Edly-Allen Urges Self-Employed Workers to Apply for Unemployment Benefits

LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Mary Edly-Allen, D-Libertyville, is bringing attention to new unemployment benefits available for self-employed workers and independent contractors.

“Under normal circumstances, self-employed workers are not eligible for unemployment benefits, but for the first time ever these benefits are now being extended to these workers to help address the new challenges presented by COVID-19,” said Edly-Allen. “This program will help give self-employed workers some much needed financial relief.”

The federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program provides unemployment benefits for individuals who are not eligible for state unemployment benefits, such as self-employed workers and independent contractors. Workers may also be eligible for PUA if they or a household member have been diagnosed with COVID-19, are caring for a household or family member, are unable to go to work at the advice of a health care provider, were scheduled to start work but do not currently have a job due to COVID-19, or are serving as the primary caregiver for a child unable to attend school due to COVID-19.

Claimants may be eligible for up to 39 weeks of benefits and must first have been denied from the Regular Unemployment Benefits extended to W2 workers. Residents may find out more about eligibility requirements and how to apply at www2.illinois.gov/ides/pages/learn-about-pua.aspx.

“Self-employed workers have been waiting for the rollout of the PUA enrollment system, and it is finally up and running,” Edly-Allen added. “I urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security website to find out more about their potential eligibility and file a claim. If our office can be of assistance, please contact us 224-206-7647.”