Covid = Unemployment

[ILLMAS]

I have client that runs a daycare, our state has a mandatory closure of schools, daycare etc...  until the end of the month.  What is happening is beyond my client control, but technically there will be work for her employees if the virus wasn't happening, can her employees claim unemployment compensation?  Or are they even titled?

[Lion EA]

If they are/were employees, they can apply for benefits. I've already had a hair stylist contact me (she previously dropped off her tax documents) to get her W-2 info for an unemployment application. State by state regulations.

[jklcpa]

Yes, state by state and that continues to evolve, so it depends on how each state views the shutdown due to the CoVid-19.  Google and check the states' websites for more information. My state has a page with information in statement format while others have it in FAQs or Q&A format. 

I found a lot of information quickly by a search of "covid shutdown & [enter your state] unemployment" and look for the site that is the official one for your state, or check directly on your state's site that handles labor law and related taxes. 

The states are being inundated with claims, so the information should be easily found on these sites since everyone is probably asking the same questions, or will be soon.

[Patrick Michael]

NY is allowing UI for temporarily laid off workers.  They had so many people applying online that their system crashed numerous times during yesterday and today.