Connecticut
Connecticut Department of Labor
Phone: 860-263-6975 or 203-455-2653 (for information but not for filing claims)
Website: https://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/UI-OnLine/index.htm
Who qualifies for unemployment?
Most workers will qualify for unemployment benefits, and during the COVID-19 emergency, eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Please see this website for additional information: http://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/UI-OnLine/unemployedduetocoronavirus.pdf.
When should I file for unemployment?
You should file as soon as possible. Connecticut has waived the normal requirement that you continue searching for work during the COVID-19 emergency. You can only file for unemployment benefits online at the website listed above.
What if I don’t live and work in the same state?
You should file for unemployment in the state where you work.
What percentage of my pay will be replaced by unemployment benefits?
Your benefit rate is based on the average of the weekly wage you earned during the six months in the past year when you earned the highest wages, up to the current maximum weekly benefit rate of $649. During the COVID-19 emergency, if you are eligible for benefits you will also receive an additional $600 per week until July 31, 2020.
What if I didn’t lose my job but am being scheduled to work fewer hours?
You can still apply for unemployment. You will likely receive at least partial unemployment benefits if you are working part-time when you usually work full-time.
I have a different question about unemployment benefits.
You can look at this page answering some frequently asked questions for additional guidance: http://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/DOLCOVIDFAQ.PDF.
Who qualifies as an essential employee in Connecticut?
For a list of essential workers and businesses in Connecticut, please see pages 6-9 of the document at this site: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Coronavirus/COVID-19-FAQs.pdf?la=en.
What kind of paid sick leave or paid family leave do I get under state or federal law?
The new federal law requires your employer to provide 14 days of paid leave if you have coronavirus or if you are placed in quarantine to care for a family member who has coronavirus. You must receive at least two-thirds of your wages during that 14-day period. Connecticut also has a paid sick leave law. For more information, see page 9 of this FAQ site: http://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/DOLCOVIDFAQ.PDF.