8 Georgia counties affected by Debby approved for unemployment

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – State Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson announced Wednesday that workers in eight Georgia counties may now be eligible for federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) to compensate for income lost directly resulting from Tropical Storm Debby, which struck the areas August 4, through August 20.

The affected counties are Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, and Screven. Presently, these are the only counties authorized to provide DUA benefits.

“When natural disasters strike, the devastation can often force businesses to close, leaving owners and employees vulnerable to uncertainty and financial hardship,” said Commissioner Bruce Thompson. “In these challenging times, federal unemployment benefits serve as a vital lifeline, providing crucial support to individuals and families when they need it most.”

DUA is a federal program established to help workers whose primary income is lost or interrupted as a direct result of a disaster declared by the President. It differs from regular state unemployment insurance in that it provides benefits to people who are self-employed, farmers, diversified farming operators, loggers, commission-paid employees, and others who are not eligible under the state’s program.

Applicants may be eligible for a weekly benefit of as much as $365. Individuals in the authorized counties directly affected by Tropical Storm Debby must first apply for regular unemployment insurance on the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) website at dol.georgia.gov or in person at any GDOL career center.

The GDOL will notify claimants if they are eligible to file for DUA. Eligible claimants must apply for DUA no later than Monday, November 25, 2024.

Income verification may be required when applying for DUA benefits. Applicants should be prepared to provide proof of earnings for the most recently completed tax year. Acceptable proof of earnings includes copies of the most recently completed income tax returns, quarterly estimated income tax payment records, or similar documents.

DUA benefits may also be available to individuals who become the breadwinner or who provide major financial support for a household because the head of the household died as a direct result of Tropical Storm Debby. Individuals applying for benefits under such circumstances must present proof of the head of household’s death, such as a death certificate or affidavit.

While applications may be filed in person at any GDOL career center, individuals are encouraged to apply on the GDOL website at dol.georgia.gov. For additional information on DUA and the GDOL career center locations, visit dol.georgia.gov or call the GDOL toll-free customer service line at 1-877-709-8185.