The Bureau of Unemployment Compensation

On March 28, Congress enacted and the President signed new unemployment programs to provide relief to people affected by COVID-19. These new programs are complex, and we are working to implement them as quickly as possible. Those who have exhausted all available benefits already or are self-employed should wait to file a claim for benefits. Since these programs have not been implemented yet, filing at this point will only result in a denial. We will continue to provide information as it becomes available. Once implemented, benefits will be paid retroactively. If you have already enrolled in the current program, you should continue filing your weekly certifications.

Additional guidance to prevent unnecessary delays

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.

How to avoid being locked out of your unemployment account

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

Unemployment Insurance FAQs Regarding COVID-19

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



The Bureau of Unemployment Compensation contributes to economic stability by providing temporary employer-funded benefits to eligible individuals while they seek re-employment. We operate an accessible, integrity-driven program in a timely and accurate manner.