• The usual “waiting week” for benefits has been eliminated.

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• Job search requirements have been suspended.

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• Applicants will need to provide a name, social security number, birthday, email, postal address and employment details.

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• The amount you get from the state depends on your earnings over the last few quarters.

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• The Relief Act passed by Congress adds $600 to your UI benefits for up to four months. The $600 per week is on top of the amount of UI a worker gets from the state.

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• The legislation also adds 13 week of benefits. People nearing the maximum number of weeks allowed by their state--in Kentucky that's 26 week--will get an extension. New filers will be allowed to collect the benefits for the longer period.

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• Workers usually not covered by unemployment insurance can now file, including:

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• Self-employed, independent contractors, freelance workers substitute teachers 

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• Childcare workers employed by religious affiliated organizations and non-profits 

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• Virus-related good cause: Workers who left their job for “good cause” because of reasonable risk of exposure (self-quarantine) or to care for a family member affected by the virus are also eligible.

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• If you are denied unemployment benefits, you have the right to appeal. To appeal, you must request a hearing in writing. For free legal help, contact your local legal aid organization.