GREENSBORO, N.C. — Ever since the first executive orders regarding quarantining went out, unemployment has been one of the most commonly talked about topics.
And almost as soon as those unemployment claims started, we started getting calls about issues with the system. People have been kicked out of their accounts, been unable to get someone on the phone, or dealt with other glitches on the website.
But when you do get through to unemployment, it doesn't end there. We talked to Alex Maultsby, an employmeny attorney with Fox Rothschild LLP about what comes next.
UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS:
When and if your approved for unemployment benefits, you could be looking at benefits from both the federal government and the state of North Carolina. Under state law, you can get up to a maximum $350 each week. Now add $600 from the federal C.A.R.E.S. act.
The other good thing about it, the benefits don't start when you apply. If you were laid off, furloughed, or had your hours reduced a few weeks ago, but didn't get your unemployment benefits approved until today, you'll get unemployment benefits for the entire time you've been out of work.
To reach out to Alex Maultsby if you have any more questions, you can find his office phone number and email here.
FINDING A TEMPORARY JOB:
If filing for unemployment isn't for you, consider getting a temporary job. We talked to Will Graham, of Graham Personnel Services, a full-service staffing firm. They're constantly looking for new employees, even right now, to get hired and continue to earn a living.
Graham says that about 95% of the jobs they hire for are full time, and even come with benefits.
The number 1 area that needs workers now is the health care industry followed by essential manufacturing work. Even if your last job wasn't in these fields, employers are looking for any extra help possible.
You can learn more about Graham Personnel Services and how to sign up by heading over to their website.
But Graham says it's not just services like his company that can help you find a job. Visit job board sites likes indeed.com or monster.com. You want to get the word out to as many people as you can.
Let your friends, family, past coworkers, whoever, know that you're looking for a temporary job. Use your networking skills!
Just remember, if you do get a temporary job, you can't file for unemployment.
IF YOU NEED HELP WITH A LOCKED ACCOUNT OR PIN ISSUE:
NCDESPASSWORDHELP@NCCOMMERCE.COM
If you have general unemployment questions you can text UI to 336-882-4141 to get answers from the department.
And you can also text JOBS to 336-882-4141 for employment opportunities if you're looking for a new job.
And if you have more questions about unemployment check out the rest of our interview with Chris Rivera, the interim director of the Guilford County Workforce Development Board, below
FACTS NOT FEAR
Remember facts, not fear when talking about the coronavirus. You should take the same measures recommended by health leaders to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses. That means washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, and covering coughs and sneezes.
WHERE YOU GET INFORMATION ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS IS IMPORTANT
It is important to make sure the information you are getting about the coronavirus is coming directly from reliable sources like the CDC and NCDHHS. Be careful not to spread misinformation about coronavirus on social media.
NC CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE
The state also has a special hotline set up where you can call 866-462-3821 for more information on the coronavirus. You can also submit questions online at ncpoisoncontrol.org or select chat to talk with someone about the virus.
You can also text keyword VIRUS to WFMY News 2 at 336-379-5775 to find out more information.