Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) has announced the availability of Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for individuals in Cook County affected by flooding in June. This assistance follows a major disaster declaration issued by President Biden on August 15, 2023. The DUA benefits are funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

"IDES is pleased to see that federal disaster relief, including the availability of DUA benefits, has been authorized for individuals impacted by the severe storms and flooding that occurred in Cook County earlier this summer," stated IDES Acting Director Ray Marchiori. "The Department stands ready to assist those affected and bring some relief to the area’s residents."

Applications for DUA benefits are now being accepted from those whose employment or self-employment was disrupted due to the flooding. Eligible claimants can receive up to 26 weeks of benefits as long as their unemployment continues because of the disaster. Applications must be submitted by September 20, 2023.

Before applying for DUA benefits, claimants must first apply for and be found ineligible for regular state unemployment insurance benefits. IDES will assess eligibility and payments on a case-by-case basis.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides essential services such as job fairs and labor market information analysis while administering the Unemployment Insurance Program. For more details about IDES services, visit their website at IDES.Illinois.gov.