Apply Now For Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
Deadline For Applications Is December 18
Release Date: December 11, 2003
Release Number: 1499-37
» More Information on Washington Severe Storms and Flooding
EVERETT, Wash. -- Applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) will be accepted through Dec. 18, 2003.
“Individuals who are out of work as a direct result of the severe storms October 15 – 23, 2003, may be eligible for weekly benefit payments under the DUA program,” said Diane R. Offord, the state official in charge of disaster recovery, “but they must get their applications in right away.”
The DUA program extends coverage to people who are not eligible for unemployment compensation under the regular state unemployment insurance program. Self-employed persons, farm workers, loggers, farm and ranch owners, commission-paid employees and others may be eligible under the DUA program.
“There are several ways to apply,” said Anthony Russell, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) chief disaster recovery official. “Applicants can visit their local Worksource center or they can request that an application be mailed or faxed to them by calling (360) 902-9479. For those who prefer the Internet, they can apply online at www.wa.gov/esd/ui/dua.htm or request an application through E-mail at dua@esd.wa.gov.”
Applicants will need a social security number. Self-employed applicants should also be prepared to provide information about earnings from their previous federal tax year.
This program is available to workers in the disaster declared areas of Chelan, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Mason, Okanogan, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, and Whatcom Counties.
The DUA program is funded by FEMA and administered by the Washington State Department of Employment Security.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Friday, 12-Dec-2003 07:47:35