Extended unemployment insurance benefits for eligible unemployed Alaskans are coming to an end.
State Labor Commissioner Heidi Drygas announced on March 28 that those benefits, which became available on Nov. 5, 2017, would end with the last payable week of April 7.
The state’s unemployment rate controls when extended benefits are available, and the U.S. Department of Labor has determined Alaska’s current unemployment rate does not meet the eligibility requirements for these additional benefits. The state Division of Employment and Training Services, which administers Alaska’s unemployment insurance program, will notify impacted unemployed workers by mail.
Those with remaining balances of extended benefits may continue to file until their benefits are exhausted or the end date of April 7, whichever comes first. Unemployed workers who have exhausted their regular benefits may file a new claim for extended benefits through the week ending April 7.
Individuals in the Cordova area wishing to apply for extended benefits or those who have questions regarding their eligibility should call 1-888-252-2557.
