As record numbers of New Jerseyans apply for unemployment benefits during the coronavirus crisis, many are having trouble getting through.
They’re frustrated. Exasperated. Pull-out-your-hair and throw-something-at-the-wall exasperated.
They don’t know what to do.
NJ Advance Media has been bringing you the most recent updates on what’s happening with unemployment benefits in the wake of coronavirus.
We know that unemployment recipients should start to see their extra $600 per week benefit this week.
We also know that gig workers, freelancers and independent contractors will have to wait for the state to get additional federal guidance. But they’re encouraged to apply and expect a denial because that will be the first step in the process.
Readers have had other questions and complaints about filing for benefits.
Here are the Department of Labor’s answers to some of your pressing unemployment concerns.
(The agency said it’s working hard to help everyone and it asks for your patience. Also remember that benefits will be retroactive. While no one wants to wait, you can be sure you will get all the benefits for which you’re eligible, DOL said.)
Q: I don’t know my PIN/I need to reset my PIN. What do I do?
A: DOL says when you first certify for benefits, you will choose a four-digit personal identification number (PIN). Write down your PIN and keep it in a safe place. Your PIN is good for one year. If you forget your PIN, you will need to call to ask a representative to reset your PIN.
Q: I filed my claim and now unemployment told me to call. When I call, a recording tells me they are not taking any more calls and to call back the next business day. But the same thing happens the next day. What can I do?
A: This is a commonly reported problem.
“New Jersey’s Unemployment Insurance system is experiencing record levels of demand due to coronavirus and all in-person services statewide are currently closed due to COVID-19,” DOL said. “Some people cannot get through online or on the phone. We understand your anxiety and frustration, and we apologize. We’re working diligently to serve all our customers and ask for your patience. Please keep trying. We’re committed to ensuring that everyone receives their benefits during this crisis. You will not lose a day’s benefits as all claims will be backdated to your first day of employment loss.”
Q: I was told to call unemployment but I can’t get through. So I tried to email UIHelp@dol.nj.gov, and none of my emails have been answered. What can I do?
A: As DOL said above, unemployment representatives are working hard to answer everyone’s questions. Keep trying and be patient.
Q: I filed weeks ago and it still says my claim is pending, and I can’t get through on the phone. What can I do?
A: Same as above. Keep trying.
Q: I know I have to certify my unemployment but I haven’t gotten any instructions on how to do that. What do I do?
A: After submitting an application, you will receive a confirmation number at the end of your application. Record the confirmation number.
You are then supposed to receive an email with instructions on how and when to claim benefits.
If you don’t receive an email, you must phone a call center.
“With so many people filing for Unemployment for the first time, some folks have questions about the procedure for telling the State that you remain under- or unemployed, also known as `certifying for weekly benefits,’” DOL said “Please visit myunemployment.nj.gov and read our guide and schedule for certifying.”
DOL said because of high volume, it is taking steps to ensure the stability of its online application. Each week you certify, click this link to review the Social Security Number-based schedule to claim weekly benefits. Regardless of the time you claim your benefit, your request for payment will be processed overnight, it said.
Q: What is a monetary call and why do I need one?
A: If there is any question about the amount of benefits you are entitled to receive, you will need to have a phone interview with a monetary representative.
“The representative will call you at the scheduled time. While every attempt will be made to call you on time, delays can occur. You must be available for two hours after the scheduled time,” DOL said.
For the interview, you should have proof of employment such as pay stubs and W-2 forms for the last 18 months. The DOL may also contact your former employers to request wage and separation information.
After the interview, you will receive a determination explaining what benefits you are entitled to receive.
Q: I had a monetary call scheduled but no one ever called me and I can’t get through. What can I do?
A: DOL said it will make every attempt to call you on time, but there could be delays.
Q: I was on unemployment before this all started. Do I need to reapply to get the extra 13 weeks of benefits?
A: Under the CARES Act, you are likely eligible for an additional 13 weeks of benefits provided by Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation. You should receive more information by email or regular mail. You don’t have to take any action at this time, DOL said.
Q: I was denied benefits because I don’t have enough credits. What next?
A: While you may not qualify for regular benefits, you are probably eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. These benefits can be paid retroactively for periods of unemployment beginning on or after January 27, 2020.
Q: I’ve already exhausted my unemployment benefits. Am I eligible under the CARES Act?
A: You are probably eligible for an additional 13 weeks under Pandemic Unemployment Compensation. DOL is still waiting for additional guidance from the federal government before it can process these benefits.
Q: I was furloughed. Can I get unemployment benefits?
A: You are probably eligible for Unemployment Insurance. You should apply.
Q: I was approved for benefits and they said how much my check would be. When I try to certify, it says the claim is not payable at this time. What can I do?
A: Because each person’s case is different, continue to call and email the agency.
Q: I was denied but my business shut down and I was a regular employee. How do I appeal?
A: You can file an appeal using DOL’s online application.