Self-employers can't file for unemployment, but there is another way to get help

Over 300,000 people in North Carolina filed for unemployment just in the last month. But as more businesses temporarily close because they are non-essential, self-employers along with hairdressers and independent contractors are finding that they can't file for state unemployment benefits.

Luckily there is another benefit they can apply for, called the federal CARES act or the coronavirus aid relief and economic security act. Most people know it as the $2.2 trillion stimulus package congress passed last month.

Under the act, certain workers can apply for pandemic unemployment insurance. In order to apply, you have to meet three qualifications:

1. You have to be ineligible for any other unemployment benefits, state or federal.
2. You have to be unemployed, partially unemployed, or can't work at all because of the coronavirus outbreak.
3. You don't have the option to work from home or you can get paid leave.

This includes self-employed workers, hairdressers, independent contractors, and even people who don't have a lot of work history to qualify for regular benefits.

If you meet these qualifications, you are eligible for up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefits around $600.

You can find more about applying for unemployment here.

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.

RELATED: Facts Not Fear | What you need to know about the COVID-19 outbreak

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. 

For more information visit the CDC OR NCDHHS

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.