IMPORTANT INITIAL CLAIM FILING INFORMATION: If you are unable to work as a result of the Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) outbreak, do not enter your reason for separation as a suspension, even if your job has been temporarily suspended due to the virus. This will delay your claim for benefits. If your employer closed or reduced your hours, select "Lack of Work/Laid Off". If you have to leave for your health, or the health of a dependent select Voluntary Quit.

IMPORTANT WEEKLY CLAIM FILING INFORMATION: On your weekly certification for benefits, if you are unable to work as a result of the Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19), please do not answer the question with No, unless you, yourself, were actually ill during the week (either as a result of the virus, or some other illness). You would need to report your illness, and indicate the number of days of the week you were unable to work.

The fastest method to receive benefits if otherwise eligible is through Direct Deposit: We recommend all claimants opt for this payment method. After creating your account and filing your initial claim for benefits, while logged in to your ReEmployME account: From the home screen navigate to "Benefit Maintenance". Click Update Claimant Profile and Payment Options. Follow the screen prompts to set up Direct Deposit. For a step-by-step walk through of the process, please go to: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/reemploymeguide/ . You will find the instructions starting on page 27 of the guide.

One of the most common issues reported is being locked out of a benefit account due to failed password attempts. Please click on the document below to download instructions.

http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=2247345&an=1

Governor Mills has introduced, and on March 17 the Legislature passed, emergency legislation to support workers and businesses economically impacted by COVID-19, the novel coronavirus.

Download the Unemployment Insurance FAQs at:

http://www.maine.gov/labor/docs/2020/covid19/covidfaqandui.pdf