CHANGES TO OHIO UNEMPLOYMENT IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19

Recent updates to Ohio unemployment benefits reflect a growing need amidst massive layoffs across Ohio due to mandated Covid-19 related closures. 

Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services has temporarily increased staff to process unemployment benefit applications and has issued a WARN processing number to expedite processing of applications related to the Coronavirus outbreak.

ODJFS has encouraged employers to share the common WARN number, 2000180, and to share the following link: http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us/forms/num/JFS00671/pdf/.

The wait time for applying for unemployment benefits over the phone is approximately 53 minutes at present. The wait time for applying for unemployment benefits online is approximately 13 minutes. ODJFS is encouraging laid-off employees to apply online.

The state is also waving the usual one-week waiting period to start receiving benefits after you apply. Following the typical one-week waiting period, application processing typically takes three to four weeks. State officials have not said whether the Coronavirus outbreak will speed the process.

Unemployment benefits will be available for eligible individuals who are requested by a medical professional, local health authority, or employer to be isolated or quarantined as a result of Covid-19, even if they aren’t actually diagnosed.

For the most current updates related to Ohio unemployment benefits and to apply, please visit: http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/CoronavirusAndUI.stm