The Delaware Department of Labor paid the first Pandemic Unemployment Assistance claims.
The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program provides benefits for independent contractors and self-employed workers in the state of Delaware who are not under the unemployment insurance system.
The program has been under criticism for delays in paying benefits for workers who in many cases have been unable to return to their businesses and professions.
Tattoo, facial and massage businesses have been barred from opening in Phase 1, which gets underway on Monday. Other businesses are opening with restrictions.
The new system was launched on May 16 and since that time more than 6,000 claims have been filed reflecting more than$14 million in benefits requested.
In response to the recent rise of benefits fraud in many states, the testing of the new system was extended. The focus in the coming weeks is to improve the speed with which claims are processed, reviewed, and paid. Next week, and in the weeks to come more claimants will begin to receive PUA benefits, a release stated.
Those who have registered for (PUA) benefits, should continue with weekly certifications to ensure benefits are processed and disbursed as soon as possible, according to the department.
For questions, or you require more information regarding PUA benefit claims, visit PUA.delawareworks.com, or call 302-368-660 | 302-739-5461 | 302-856-5611
