Federal employees affected by the government shutdown in West Virginia may apply for unemployment benefits throughout WorkForce West Virginia.
Affected workers are encouraged to apply by visiting workforcewv.org. Applicants may also visit their local WorkForce Office for additional support and application assistance. WorkForce Outreach Office employees cannot process unemployment claims.
Below are some frequent questions regarding unemployment benefits for federal employees on furlough:
Q: How do I file for unemployment benefits?
A: You must file online at workforcewv.org.
Q: Do I have to serve a waiting week?
A: Yes. The first week you are eligible for benefits on a claim is a mandatory unpaid waiting period.
Q: How long will it take for me to receive benefits?
A: Applications will be processed as soon as possible. There may be some delays due to wages not being immediately available due to the shutdown.
Q: What documentation will I need?
A: You will need to submit a Notification of Personnel Action (SFSO), or a Notice to Federal Employee About Unemployment Insurance (SF8). In order to expedite your claim process, please upload check stubs when filing the Initial claim in case the agency cannot obtain wage information.
Q: Do I have to search for a job while furloughed?
A: Federal employees who are separated as a result of the partial government shutdown are considered job-attached and will not be required to conduct a job search during the furlough.
Q: What if I am working some hours but not getting paid?
A: If you are working but not getting paid, you need to report hours and earnings during this time, for each week you file for benefits.
Q: What happens if I receive back pay after the shutdown has ended?
A: If Congress reaches an agreement that includes back pay for furloughed time, federal workers will be responsible for paying back any unemployment benefits received during that time. If you have already requested payment of unemployment benefits and you then receive payment from your government job you must provide detailed information about the compensation you received, including dates and gross amounts.
For more information on unemployment benefits for federal furloughed employees in West Virginia, visit workforcewv.org/unemployment or call 304-558-2611.
