Most people who were receiving federal PUA or PEUC benefits were doing so because they were either not eligible for or had already exhausted state unemployment benefits, and so would likely not be eligible for state benefits at this time. However, if you think you may be eligible for unemployment benefits you should apply.

The eligibility requirements for state unemployment are: You must have worked and earned enough in employment wages over the last 18 months ( at least ~$1,700/calendar quarter in at least 2 of the last 5 quarters, and a total of at least ~$5,600 in 4 out of the last 5 quarters) You lost your job through no fault of your own You must be actively seeking work You must be able and available to work

For more info: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment

In July 2021, the Maine Department of Labor circulated a brief survey to better understand the barriers faced in returning to work.

• Download the survey results document

The temporary federal unemployment programs (PUA, PEUC, FPUC, MEUC) are ending after week ending September 4.

More information:

• Web page
• Document (Word)

The federal Continued Assistance for Unemployed Workers Act of 2020 requires that the Maine Department of Labor verify the identity of all new PUA applicants before the claim is processed. It is also a federal requirement that PUA recipients provide proof of employment.

For more information, please visit the PUA ID and Employment Verification web page.