The federal government is providing help to those who have been forced out of work by the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic who have typically been excluded from collecting unemployment.

Pennsylvania recently rolled out information on the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, which expands unemployment benefits under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, And Economic Security (CARES) Act. System issues have stalled filings for the claims, so officials are looking to address those issues before accepting new applications. Please be patient as the new system gets up and running to process PUA claims. 

Self-employed workers, independent contractors gig workers and more are eligible for benefits under PUA. The program provides up to 39 weeks of benefits for those who have lost work because of the coronavirus.

Learn more about Pandemic Unemployment Assistance here

The website above has information on what documentation you will need as well as an FAQ on whether you should apply for PUA benefits. Check back to that website for updates on the system, as well as email updates from Senator Hughes on unemployment compensation.

Stay up to date with the latest information on the pandemic at senatorhughes.com/coronavirus. Please do your part to help stop the spread of the virus. Stay safe, stay at home, and don’t forget to wash your hands! 

Keeping your distance can break the chain of COVID-19 infection.

Here is guide issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, helping provide clear guidance and direction in response to coronavirus COVID-19. The residents of Philadelphia and its suburbs have been ordered to remain at home as to help prevent spread of coronavirus, find out what that means for you. 

Keep in mind, Philadelphia is regularly updating its website to provide more information and resources on coronavirus COVID-19.  

Montgomery County is doing the same

Here are some reminders about preventing spread of the disease: 

Best practices to plan, prepare for and respond to the coronavirus COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control. 

What are the symptoms of coronavirus? 
Symptoms of the COVID-19 can include: 

  • Fever 
  • Cough 
  • Shortness of breath  

The symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from people with little to no symptoms to people being severely ill and dying.  
What to do if you think you have coronavirus COVID-19, according to the CDC

  • Stay home except to get medical care 
  • Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home 
  • Call ahead before visiting your doctor 
  • Wear a facemask if you are sick 
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes 
  • Clean your hands often 
  • Avoid sharing personal household items 
  • Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday 

For more details on what to do prevent coronavirus COVID-19 spread, visit the CDCs full list of recommendations.

Read more: CDC recommendations on getting tested for coronavirus 

Coronavirus Information Sheet - click to download.

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