Hurricane Helene Relief: Important Updates for Affected Georgians
Attention all residents in Georgia! If you’ve been affected by the devastating Hurricane Helene that swept through our state between September 24, 2024, and October 30, 2024, we’ve got some important news for you. The filing deadline to apply for federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) has just been extended to January 7, 2025. It’s a sigh of relief for many, but you’ll need to act quickly!
What is DUA and Who Can Benefit?
DUA is a lifeline for those whose income has taken a hit due to the devastation of a declared disaster by the President. Unlike regular unemployment insurance, DUA is designed to help those who might not qualify for state benefits. This means if you’re self-employed, a farmer, a commission-paid employee, or perhaps a logger – this program is here for you!
Eligible individuals may receive up to $365 per week starting from the week of September 29, 2024. This can make a significant difference as you get back on your feet after this unforeseen calamity.
Counties Affected by Hurricane Helene
Here’s where it gets serious! The list of counties affected includes:
- Appling
- Atkinson
- Bacon
- Ben Hill
- Berrien
- Brantley
- Brooks
- Bryan
- Bulloch
- Burke
- Butts
- Camden
- Candler
- Charlton
- Chatham
- Clinch
- Coffee
- Colquitt
- Columbia
- Cook
- Dodge
- Echols
- Effingham
- Elbert
- Emanuel
- Evans
- Fulton
- Glascock
- Glynn
- Hancock
- Irwin
- Jeff Davis
- Jefferson
- Jenkins
- Johnson
- Lanier
- Laurens
- Liberty
- Lincoln
- Long
- Lowndes
- McDuffie
- McIntosh
- Montgomery
- Newton
- Pierce
- Rabun
- Richmond
- Screven
- Stephens
- Taliaferro
- Tattnall
- Telfair
- Thomas
- Tift
- Toombs
- Treutlen
- Ware
- Warren
- Washington
- Wayne
- Wheeler
- Wilkes
If you live in one of these counties and have lost your main source of income due to the hurricane, make sure you check out this assistance!
How to Apply for DUA
Before applying for DUA, you’ll need to first apply for regular unemployment insurance through the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) website at dol.georgia.gov or by visiting a GDOL career center in person. Once you’ve done that, the GDOL will let you know if you’re eligible to file for DUA. But remember, this process should be completed by January 7, 2025
When you apply, be ready to show proof of your earnings from the last tax year—this could be in the form of tax returns or quarterly estimated income payment records. It’s always better to be prepared!
Additional Information
DUA benefits are also available for households who are now left without a breadwinner due to Hurricane Helene. If you’ve lost a loved one, you’ll need to provide proof of their passing, like a death certificate. This will help secure support for you during this tough time.
If you have any questions or need more information, you can visit the GDOL website or call their customer service line at 1-877-709-8185. You’re not alone—help is just a phone call away!
Remember, folks! This is a time to come together and support each other. If you or someone you know is affected, spread the word about this crucial assistance. Let’s help each other rebuild and recover after facing the storm of Hurricane Helene!
