Are you you trying to get an unemployment check due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but you’re running into a wall because you’re self-employed?
The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program is separate from the regular unemployment insurance program, which will continue to operate. PUA is designed for individuals who are not eligible for regular and extended benefits, or Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC). This could include independent contractors, self-employed, gig worker, agricultural worker, etc.
Arkansas Division of Workforce Services (ADWS) is currently in the process of building the infrastructure to accept the PUA applications and make payments, since those workers were not previously eligible for unemployment assistance and therefore, cannot use the EZARC system to apply.
ADWS will send you an email when the PUA Application System is available, along with instructions on how to apply. Sign up to receive this email alert at: https://ArkansasDWS.formstack.com/forms/pua_information.
But wait, there’s more…
Although self-employed individuals are usually not eligible to receive benefits through the regular state unemployment insurance program, if you’ve worked for an employer in the last 18 months, you may want to determine eligibility by filing a claim online or through the hotline.
- That web address is http://ezarc.adws.arkansas.gov and it’s open 7 days a week, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- The phone number is 844-908-2178 and it’s open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Due to extremely high call volume, there may be extended waiting times.
- The ADWS asks that you do not come to apply in person, since they are following social distancing and CDC guidelines.
If you have questions, email [email protected]. This is for basic questions from individuals and employers about the unemployment insurance program. You cannot use this email address to file a claim or get questions answered about your specific claim.