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Disaster Unemployment Assistance

What is Disaster Unemployment Assistance?

If you lost your job, can't work or had hours reduced as a direct result of Hurricane Helene, you may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is offering temporary financial help for those whose employment or self employment was impacted by Hurricane Helene in the following communities: Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe Counties and the Cities of Galax and Radford.

Who may be eligible?

Individuals who:

  • No longer have the job that provided their primary source of income
  • Are unable to reach their place of employment
  • Cannot work because of an injury caused by the storm
  • Were unable to begin employment or self-employment due to the storm
  • You became the primary support of your family because of the death of the head of the
  • household because of the disaster
  • Do not qualify for regular state unemployment benefits

What do I need to apply?

  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Name, address, and employment dates for all employers from the past two years
    (including out-of-state employers)
  • A phone number where we can contact you for follow-up

How do I apply?

Deadline to apply: December 2, 2024

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