The CNMI Department of Labor (CNMI DOL) would like to clarify circulating information regarding the expiration of the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program.
According to guidance from the US Department of Labor (USDOL-ETA), FPUC is payable for weeks of unemployment beginning on or after the date on which the state or territory enters into an agreement with USDOL. The CNMI entered into an agreement with USDOL-ETA on March 29, 2020.
The established FPUC award timeline for the Marianas is March 29, 2020 through July 31, 2020.
FPUC benefits payments are retroactive. Individuals may potentially file claims after the FPUC award end date of July 31, 2020 and if qualified, still receive FPUC benefits for any job loss or interruption due to COVID-19 during the FPUC award timeline.
Example: A claimant was laid off from his/her job on April 1, 2020 due to COVID-19. Subsequently, he/she submits a PUA/FPUC application on September 1, 2020 and meets all eligibility requirements and conditions. In this example, the claimant may potentially receive retroactive PUA and FPUC benefits in the month of September for job loss occurring in April.
Important Note:
All PUA/FPUC claims are processed on an individual case-by-case basis. The information contained in this press release may be subject to change upon further guidance from USDOL-ETA.
CNMI DOL would like to remind the general public that all information regarding its programs and unemployment assistance is vetted for accuracy before transmittal to the CNMI Office of the Governor. Please continue to follow updates from CNMI DOL through local media partners and through the CNMI Office of the Governor’s Facebook page and website at www.governor.gov.mp.
CNMI DOL is an equal opportunity employer/program and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Visit CNMI DOL’s website at www.marianaslabor.net for more PUA/FPUC-related information.
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