Disaster Unemployment Now Available For Mississippi Flood Victims 

Release Date: May 22, 2008
Release Number: 1753-006

» More Information on Mississippi Severe Storms and Flooding

CLINTON, Miss. -- Bolivar, Warren, Washington and Wilkinson County residents and business owners who are out of work as a direct result of the recent severe storms and flooding may be eligible for weekly benefit payments under the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) program.

Funded by FEMA, the program is administered by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.

"DUA provides disaster-related unemployment payments for up to 33 weeks as long as unemployment continues as a result of the major disaster. The maximum weekly benefit amount is determined by the state," said Michael L. Parker, FEMA federal coordinating officer.

Before an individual can be determined eligible for DUA, however, it must be established that he or she is not eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under Mississippi law.

"The DUA program is somewhat different in that certain individuals who would not be eligible for regular unemployment benefits, for example, self-employed persons, would be eligible to apply," said MEMA Director Mike Womack.

Other applicants eligible to apply are those who: (1) became the major support for a household because of the disaster-related death of the head of the household, (2) cannot work because of an injury caused  as a direct result of the disaster, (3) could not work or lost work as a result of physical damage or destruction of a business, or (4) are unable to work because of the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal government.

Except for persons with an injury or self-employed individuals trying to restart their business, individuals must be able to work and available for work, which are the same requirements for regular state unemployment insurance benefits.

DUA is available to individuals for up to 33 weeks of unemployment benefits provided they apply before the June 12, 2008 deadline. 

Applicants can register for assistance by visiting their local Mississippi Department of Employment Security, WIN Job Center or by calling toll-free, 1-888-844-3577.  A list of the offices currently open is available at mdes.ms.gov/wps/portal/#null.

FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

Last Modified: Thursday, 22-May-2008 09:09:36