In light of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Realtors® and other 1099 independent contract workers are eligible for Unemployment Benefits, filing can begin April 1st:
Self-employed individuals, independent contractors, and other individuals who are unable to work as a direct result of COVID-19 public health emergency, and would not qualify for regular unemployment benefits under state law may be eligible to receive “Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.” These provisions come with the CARES act which goes into effect for assistance tomorrow, April 1st.
This excludes individuals who have an ability to telework with pay or individuals who are receiving sick leave or other paid leave benefits.
The unemployment assistance is available to individuals who are unemployed, partially unemployed, or unable to work for the weeks impacted as a result of COVID-19 between Jan. 27- December 31, 2020.
These benefits will be administered by the states, in accordance with this new Federal law: For Alabama, more information can be found at https://www.labor.alabama.gov/.
There is a maximum of 39 weeks of assistance, where the amount is equal to what is authorized under the state unemployment compensation law, plus an additional $600 per week for up to four months.
