CINCINNATI — The governors of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana have all updated their state's unemployment rules in the wake of the global coronavirus pandemic.
See below for your state's specific rules for applying for unemployment benefits.
OHIO
Here is an explanation of current unemployment benefits on the Ohio Job and Family Services website. By executive order, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine made more workers eligible for unemployment benefits during the emergency declaration period. He also eliminated the one-week gap between the end of employment and the beginning of benefit eligibility. JFS urged people to use the website to apply rather than calling. The agency has received more than 100,000 applications since March 15.
How to file for unemployment:
- File online here: unemployment.ohio.gov
- File by phone: This phone number is experiencing extremely high volumes of calls. The best way to file is online at the JFS website listed above. If you need to call, the number is 877-644-6562
KENTUCKY
Gov. Andy Beshear said Monday that Kentucky is taking steps to waive the waiting period to receive unemployment benefits for those who are losing their jobs because of COVID-19. The state will waive any work-search requirements attached to such benefits while the state of emergency is in effect.
How to file for unemployment:
- File online here: kcc.ky.gov
- File by phone: 502-564-2900, option 1
INDIANA
Indiana's Department of Workforce Development will request flexibility under federal and state law to expand eligibility for claimants and ease burdens on employers, Gov. Eric Holcomb's office said Monday.
The DWD has also suspended rules requiring people to physically appear at a Work One location to engage in reemployment services for the next four weeks.
How to file for unemployment:
- File online here: in.gov/dwd
- For questions call: 800-891-6499
