Program helps with pay lost to Isaac
People whose jobs have been lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Isaac in parishes approved for FEMA’s individual disaster assistance are eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, the Louisiana Workforce Commission said Tuesday.
The parishes are Ascension, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, St. Charles and St. Tammany. Anyone who has not returned to work as of Sept. 8 can apply. The deadline to apply is Oct. 2.
The state agency said employers play a vital role in ensuring qualified applicants receive benefits promptly, and that those who do not qualify do not get benefits.
Some people will file unemployment claims just in case they don’t return to work quickly, the agency said. Unless the Louisiana Workforce Commission is informed that employees have returned to work, the agency is obligated to pay claims.
The agency said employers should respond to verify employment and wages when contacted and whether an employee was unable to work because of Hurricane Isaac and whether the employee was compensated for the days not worked.
“This helps us pay the right people the right amount quickly, and helps us avoid paying benefits to those who are no longer entitled to them,” the agency said in a press release.
Employers can respond with hurricane-related information by fax at (225) 346-6086; email at IsaacDUA2012@lwc.la.gov or mail UI Special Claims Unit, P.O. Box 3312, Baton Rouge, LA 70821.
Information needed includes the last day the employee worked; date of return to work that is expected; and whether the employer is in contact with the employee.