FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rachel Dumeny
Communications and Outreach Coordinator
Office of the Commissioner
Vermont Department of Labor
(802) 272-4509
Rachel.Dumeny@vermont.gov
Vermont Department of Labor:
Workers Affected by July 2024 Flood Should Apply for Unemployment Benefits
Montpelier, Vt.– The Vermont Department of Labor urges all workers whose employment has been impacted by the July 2024 flooding to apply for unemployment benefits. This includes individuals whose place of business is closed due to the flood or who are unable to report to work due to the flood.
Commissioner Michael Harrington emphasized the importance of seeking assistance without delay: "We understand the immense impact this flood has had on our communities, and our priority is to ensure that all affected Vermonters receive the support they need. We urge anyone who has been displaced, lost their job or who’s business has been closed due to the flooding, to reach out and apply for unemployment benefits.”
Individuals who have lost their jobs, are unable to reach their place of employment, or cannot work due to the flood conditions are encouraged to apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible. Vermonter’s can initiate the application process by calling the Unemployment Claimant Assistance Center at 1-877-214-3330.
If you file a claim and are found ineligible, you may become eligible later on if federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance benefits are authorized. Regardless, the first step in the process is to file an initial claim through the regular unemployment insurance program.
To avoid long hold times and ensure the Unemployment Insurance Call Center can serve everyone effectively, we recommend calling during our non-peak hours. Our non-peak hours are Tuesday through Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Filing your initial claim later in the week will not impact your ability to receive unemployment benefits.
To further assist those affected, the Department of Labor’s regional job centers are open and available to provide necessary support. These centers offer access to Wi-Fi, computers, phones, and other resources needed to submit unemployment applications.
To find a comprehensive list of regional job centers near you, visit https://labor.vermont.gov/workforce-development.
In addition to unemployment benefits, several resources are available for flood victims to aid in recovery and provide necessary support:
- Vermont 2-1-1: This service offers comprehensive information on flood recovery resources, including shelter locations, food assistance, and other essential services. Dial 2-1-1 or visit vermont211.org for more details.
- Vermont Department of Labor Flood Resources: The Department’s website provides valuable information on flood-related assistance programs and services available to residents. Visit labor.vermont.gov/flood-safety-resources for details.
For further assistance or inquiries, please contact the Vermont Department of Labor at (802) 828-4000 or visit https://labor.vermont.gov.
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