The CARES Act and American Rescue Plan allows states to extend unemployment compensation to residents who aren’t usually eligible for unemployment benefits, such as self-employed or part-time workers.

For more information specific to your state, please visit the US Department of Labor’s State Unemployment Office Directory to find your state’s website and contact information.

For help with finding employment, please check out these available resources.

1. Contact your state’s unemployment insurance program as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. You can apply online or by phone with your local Department of Labor or American Job Center. Some, but not all states, have paper applications available also.
2. File for benefits as directed on your state’s website.
3. When you file a claim, you will be asked for certain information, such as addresses and dates of your former employment. To make sure your claim is not delayed, be sure to give complete and correct information.
4. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), report your unemployment payments to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and other public benefit programs such as HUD (housing), SNAP (food stamps) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Each benefit program has rules regarding unemployment payments.
5. Please note that many states are experiencing high volumes of traffic and are asking filers to be patient and persistent.

SSI BENEFICIARIES

Yes, the SSI program is a “program of last resort” and individuals who receive SSI are required to apply for unemployment and for any and all benefits for which they may be eligible. If they do not apply, they may receive a notice from SSA that they are no longer eligible for SSI.

Contact SSA toll free at 1-800-772-1213 with any questions about your benefits. The SSA offices are generally closed to the public at this time and services are being provided remotely.

Please note: Outside of the Pandemic Assistance Period, Unemployment Insurance payments are included in unearned income for SSI beneficiaries; amounts in excess of $20 will reduce SSI benefits, in the month received and could impact Medicaid eligibility.

SSDI BENEFICIARIES

Work changes must be reported to SSA and public benefit programs, as appropriate. Inform the Social Security Administration of the date that you left employment and the date you return and earnings for each month.

Please note: Montana is the only state that prohibits recipients of Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) from claiming Unemployment Insurance.

All state workforce system websites should be accessible to individuals with disabilities and able to accommodate people with limited English proficiency. If you need additional assistance, make your request online or by phone to your regional job center. Contact information for your regional job center is available at: American Job Center Finder.

If you need additional information or assistance with accommodation requests:
All states are required to make the State Equal Opportunity Officer’s contact information available on workforce related websites according to Federal Regulation 29 CFR 38.29 (b). Many also include the local Equal Opportunity (EO) Officer’s contact information on the state’s website.

If you are already a vocational rehabilitation (VR client) and need help applying and/or accessing UI or job services, contact:

• Your VR counselor for assistance. Each state/local VR office will establish its ability to support clients with various tasks related to employment.
• The Client Assistance Program, which advises and informs individuals of their rights in direct connection with programs authorized under the ADA, including advocacy.

If you are an SSI/SSDI beneficiary, and need help applying and/or accessing UI or job services, contact:

• Protection & Advocacy programswork at the state level to protect individuals with disabilities by empowering them and advocating on their behalf.
• Please note: SSI beneficiaries who have lost their job due to COVID-19 are required to apply for unemployment, as SSI is the payer of last resort. Unemployment benefits and pandemic unemployment benefits received during the pandemic will not impact a beneficiary’s SSI payment under updated SSA policy. The dates the exclusion for pandemic-related unemployment payments or other assistance paid vary by state and may be found in this chart. SSI beneficiaries will still need to report their unemployment payments to SSA by the 10th of the next month.

If you are a person with a disability, and you need help accessing UI, contact your local:

• Centers for Independent Living provide information and referral, independent living skills training, individual and systems advocacy, peer counseling and other services.

According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), unemployment benefits are considered taxable income and must be reported. You can avoid a surprise bill at tax time if you choose to have income taxes withheld from your unemployment benefits, like you would from your other types of earnings or benefits. Use the same form, W-4V, to have taxes withheld from unemployment compensation or from benefits. Most states follow the federal government and fully tax unemployment benefits as well. However, some states don’t tax them at all, some states don’t have income taxes and a few states only tax part of your benefits. Check with your state for more information or check with your unemployment office to see whether they can withhold taxes.

Please note: Unemployment compensation benefits received in 2020 are subject to different tax liabilities as a result of the American Rescue Plan of March 2021.

Normally, unemployment benefits are fully taxable by the IRS and must be reported on the federal tax return. However, the American Rescue Plan of March 11, 2021 made changes to the taxation of unemployment compensation benefits received in 2020.

The IRS created a great video on Unemployment Compensation in 2020 and Taxes.  For tax year 2020 only, if your modified adjusted gross income is less than $150,000, you do not have to pay taxes on up to $10,200 of the unemployment you received. If you are married and your spouse also received unemployment, each spouse does not have to pay taxes up to $10,200 each on unemployment compensation. The exemption applies to all the benefits tied to unemployment insurance, whether earned under a traditional state program or the extra 2020 benefits. The same income cap applies to all filing statuses. Regardless of your filing status, unemployment amounts received over $10,200 are taxable.

This means that those who are eligible, and who have not filed a 2020 return yet, need to complete the Unemployment Compensation Exclusion Worksheet to figure the exclusion and the amount to enter on Schedule 1, Line 8. Details, including the worksheet, are available at IRS.gov/form1040.

For any eligible taxpayer who has already filed and reported their compensation as fully taxable, the IRS is making automatic adjustments to apply this tax benefit which may result in a refund. No further action is required.

Most states follow the federal government, however, some are not offering a tax break on unemployment benefits received in 2020 while others are partially excluding benefits. Check with your state or tax preparer for state level information, particularly if you used the option to have taxes withheld from your benefits as you may now be eligible for a refund.

LEARN ABOUT RECALCULATIONS AND REFUNDS FOR PEOPLE WHO PAID TAXES PAID BEFORE THE LAW CHANGED:

IRS will recalculate taxes on 2020 unemployment benefits and start issuing refunds in May | Internal Revenue Service

FIND INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING FOR THE NEW EXCLUSION:

New Exclusion of up to $10,200 of Unemployment Compensation | Internal Revenue Service

If you’ve been laid off from work, or anticipate cutbacks down the road, it can be a very challenging time but you can start to plan now. By taking action you might be able to avoid long-term financial hardship. Bank of America’s Better Money Habits has some time sensitive steps you can take in the days and weeks after a job loss or salary cut that can help you find your financial footing.

The Employment Recovery page provides critical unemployment and job search resources for those impacted by the pandemic. Resources are provided to help meet short-term needs such as collecting unemployment benefits or re-entering the workforce, as well as longer-term goals such as adjusting career plans in light of the evolving job market.

Circa (formerly America’s Job Exchange) is a website specifically designed to serve a diverse population that includes persons with disabilities.  Circa contains relevant tools to assist in a job search (resume templates, sample interview questions, guidance on salary negotiation, etc.) as well as a nationwide job search engine where 25,000 openings a day are added. Job seekers with disabilities are encouraged to register and upload their resume on Circa.

AbilityJobs is one of the largest and longest-running job search engines developed for persons with disabilities. Users are asked to register and upload their resumes to AbilityJobs. Their nationwide network of employers can view users’ resumes anonymously assuring job seekers that only their skills and experience are being evaluated. In addition to their search engine, AbilityJobs often hosts virtual career fairs with face-to-face video, text, captioning and American Sign Language making the events highly accessible.

DisabledPerson.com is another accessible site providing employment listings for job seekers with disabilities. Users can search for jobs by category, state or local metro area. This site also provides resume guidance and a salary finder.

Our Ability is an excellent resource for anyone with a disability seeking employment. Our Ability connects employers and candidates using a wide array of accessible technological options.

Whether you have health, family, commuting or other concerns that make it difficult to report to a physical work location, you might find a work from home position that is a good fit for you. Virtual or remote jobs are available in many fields – from entry-level customer service to complex software development or research positions. Many require a computer and an internet connection, but some provide equipment and technical support to workers.

Workforce System Accessibility 

All state workforce system websites should be accessible to individuals with disabilities and able to accommodate people with limited English proficiency. If you need additional assistance, make your request online or by phone to your regional job center. Contact information for your regional job center is available at: American Job Center Finder.

Reasonable Accommodations

The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) provides free consulting services for all individuals, regardless of employment status. Job seekers services include one-on-one consultation about all aspects of job accommodations, including the accommodation process, accommodation ideas, product vendors, referral to other resources, and ADA compliance assistance. Visit JAN’s information for individuals to learn about the different ways you can access JAN services including resources to support your job search at: JAN Accommodation Services for Job Seekers.

Reasonable accommodations must be provided to job candidates during the interview process. To learn more about the types of accommodations available during interviews, and how to request them, read Making Interviews Accessible for You.

Workplace Accommodations

If you need flexibility in your work arrangements upon return to your workplace:

• You may request the need for accommodation or flexibilities for your disability with your employer. Accommodations or flexibilities may be especially important for individuals due to age or certain medical conditions, who are at higher risk for severe illness.
• Check to see if your employer has a process in place to make accommodation requests. You may also see if you can make the request for accommodation or flexibilities before your scheduled date to return to work.
• If you need to consult with someone about all aspects of job accommodations, including the process, accommodation ideas, product vendors, referral to other resources, and ADA compliance assistance, you can access free services in a variety of formats through the Job Accommodation Network (askjan.org).

Additional Supports

If you need additional information or assistance with accommodation requests:
All states are required to make the State Equal Opportunity Officer’s contact information available on workforce-related websites according to 29 CFR 38.29 (b). Many also include the local EO Officer’s contact information on the state’s website.

If you are already a VR client and need help applying and/or accessing UI or job services, contact:

• Your VR counselor for assistance. Each state/local VR office will establish its ability to support clients with various tasks related to employment.
• The Client Assistance Program, which advises and informs individuals of their rights in direct connection with programs authorized under the ADA, including advocacy.

If you are an SSI/SSDI beneficiary, and need help applying and/or accessing UI or job services, contact:

• Protection & Advocacy programs work at the state level to protect individuals with disabilities by empowering them and advocating on their behalf.

If you are a person with a disability, and you need help accessing UI, contact your local:

• Centers for Independent Living provide information and referral, independent living skills training, individual and systems advocacy, peer counseling and other services.

Alternative Finance Programs 

There are more than 40 Alternative Finance Programs (AFP) that provide referrals for assistive technology grants for hearing and vision aids, standing wheelchairs, home and vehicle modifications, business equipment and more. AFPs provide affordable loans for the purchase or refinancing of assistive technology for those who need to purchase their AT. Lending terms are favorable and there is no income limit. The loans may be a credit building opportunity for those age 18 or older. Refinancing with an AFP can save a person thousands of dollars. To find a program near you, go to: https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/AlternativeFinancingProgramListing.pdf

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS AND COVID-19

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated its COVID-19 information on 12/14/21, adding a new section clarifying under what conditions COVID-19 may be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act.

In some cases, job applicants and employee’s COVID-19 may cause impairments that are themselves disabilities under the ADA. Applicants and employees are not automatically entitled to reasonable accommodations under the ADA. They are entitled to a reasonable accommodation when their disability requires it, and the accommodation is not an undue hardship for the employer. But, employers can choose to do more than the ADA requires.

An employer risks violating the ADA if it relies on myths, fears, or stereotypes about a condition and prevents and employee’s return to work once the employee is no longer infectious and, therefore, is medically able to return without posing a direct threat to others.

To see the full announcement and regular updates, go to: www.eeoc.gov

Yes, if you have a disability you may apply for employment and training services with your local vocational rehabilitation office. Telephone, online or other alternative means may be used in place of providing VR and supported employment services face-to-face, including ongoing support services, during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), within the U.S. Department of Education’s (Department) Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, has issued a Questions and Answers document in response to inquiries concerning the administration of the State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services, American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS) and Randolph-Sheppard programs as they seek to provide continuity of operations for individuals with disabilities in the current COVID-19 environment.

Prior to reaching out for job services, consider the following:

1. 1. What services are you looking for?
   2. Do you want to explore employment opportunities from home?
   3. Do you need assistance with your resume and/or interviewing skills?
   4. Do you need to explore online training options?
   5. Do you need career counseling?

Explore these resources to learn more, including working from home guidance, to request free benefits counseling services, employment network supports and/or vocational rehabilitation services and legal support or advocacy to resolve employment-related concerns.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued guidance to help employers implement strategies to navigate the impact of the coronavirus in the workplace. Pandemic Preparedness in the Workplace and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) includes a series of 20 questions and answers that can help protect workers with disabilities regarding testing for the Coronavirus, working from home and information about your health and preexisting conditions.

Employers must provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Job Accommodation Network is hearing from many employers who are inquiring about their responsibilities under the ADA to accommodate employees who have concerns about exposure to COVID-19. Generally, these questions have centered around individuals who may be at higher risk for developing complications associated with the coronavirus. When an employer receives a request for accommodation to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus, an employer must consider this request under the ADA and engage in the interactive process to provide reasonable accommodations, barring undue hardship. Learn more from the Job Accommodation Network about working to answer employer and employee questions in managing reasonable accommodation requests during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Employers are still required to provide reasonable accommodations in the workplace for employees with disabilities, even during this unprecedented time. The ADA National Network provides general guidance on reasonable accommodations in the workplace that may be useful for employees, employers, human resources staff and others. Additional specific questions may also be answered by contacting your local ADA Center.

GROW with GOOGLE offers free training, tools and resources to help you grow your skills, career or business. New certificates in UX Design, Data Analytics and Project Management are coming soon. Become job ready in about six months, no prior experience required.

CareerOneStop provides resources to many websites and community sources that may offer free or low-cost training. Topics include brushing up on basic skills such as English, math and basic computer knowledge, as well as software programs, science topics and foreign language learning.

States throughout the country support numerous programs for individuals with disabilities through initiatives focused on employment, education, transportation and other aspects of full community inclusion. The Center for Advancing Policy on Employment for Youth (CAPE-Youth) has compiled information to share the steps many states are taking to provide these education and transition services to youth and young adults with disabilities during the pandemic.

Topics include assistive technology, distance learning, family engagement, Individualized Education Programs, mental health, telehealth and transition. Explore the posted resources: Transition Guide and Resources, RSA COVID-19 Questions and Answers, What to Know about Transition Services for Youth with Disabilities, Transition Truths and Workforce Innovation Technical Assistance Center resources.

Disasters, economic downturns, and catastrophic events can bring unprecedented challenges to your business, causing confusion and created tough questions for small business owners about the disruption of operations, impacts to revenue and the safety of their employees and customers. To answer business owners’ questions, SCORE developed “Small Business Resilience Training” to help turn today’s obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Visit NDI’s Small Business Hub or email their Small Business Community Navigator, Ruth Chavez directly.

Access training, mentoring, business coaching, and grant opportunities through our new partnership with Verizon Small Business Digital Ready!

Visit the Disability Owned streaming TV channel online or via Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV.

Sign up for NDI’s Small Business Hub mailing list

The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) provides resources as well as consulting to assist business owners with disabilities with issues regarding business development and planning, financial practices, marketing strategies, income/benefits planning supports, e-commerce, independent contracting, remote or home-based business options, and connecting to programs and initiatives dedicated to disability-owned businesses.  To learn more about the resources available, visit JAN’s Entrepreneurship Microsite.

The organization Disability: IN can provide official certification for your business as a “Disability-Owned Business” (DOBE). Many companies and government entities are looking for a more diverse supply chain giving DOBE-certified businesses a distinct advantage.  Certification also provides owners access to exclusive resources, education, and networking opportunities.

Qualifying businesses must be for-profit, independent enterprises that are at least 51% owned and operated by someone with a disability.

Thinking about retirement is an important component to financial wellness and individual retirement accounts, better known as IRAs, are worth considering. There are several different types of IRAs, each with its own requirements and features, but all offer important tax advantages that could help you save more for your future. Most anyone with earned income can open some type of IRA.

A simplified employee pension (SEP) IRA can be a good option for those who are self-employed. SEP IRAs allow you to set aside up to 20% of your net earnings from self-employment (as determined under the SEP IRA rules), up to $66,000 through 2023.

SEP IRAs work like traditional IRAs, which means you don’t pay taxes on your contributions and earnings until you withdraw them in retirement.

Keep in mind that retirement savings may impact eligibility for means tested benefit programs such as SSI and Medicaid. An ABLE account allows a person with a disability the opportunity to save for retirement without impacting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.