1099 Workers Should Apply for Regular Unemployment Benefits Before Applying for PUA

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) has issued guidance instructing 1099 workers who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 to apply for regular unemployment insurance before the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) portal goes live on Monday, May 11. Receiving denial for regular unemployment is the first step that must be made in determining your eligibility for PUA. When you have been denied, you can submit a new claim through the PUA portal when it opens. Filing for unemployment also provides you with the chance to choose how to receive your benefits. If you are eligible, you can pick between direct deposit or a credit card to load the credit to. For more information or if you’re looking for unemployment assistance, visit the IDES webpage.