Pennsylvania’s self-employed workers and independent contractors can now file applications for unemployment benefits.
The state’s Department of Labor and Industry said Saturday that workers who were previously ineligible for unemployment compensation will be permitted to seek benefits for wages lost because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Department officials said state residents who meet qualifications for benefits can apply online, although a high volume of applications over the next several days is expected to cause temporary system slowdowns.
Payments to approved claimants could begin within two to four weeks after applications are submitted.
Those who should file for the pandemic-related unemployment benefits include self-employed workers, independent contractors, gig workers, clergy and those working for religious organizations and anyone without a sufficient employment history to qualify for regular unemployment benefits, according to state officials.
Benefits will be paid for up to 39 weeks and backdated from Jan. 27 or the first week a person was unable to work because of the coronavirus.
Residents who receive pandemic-related unemployment benefits also will be automatically enrolled in the federal government’s unemployment program that provides weekly $600 payments.
