Note: All federal CARES Act unemployment assistance programs, including PUA will discontinued week ending June 19, 2021. Additional information is available here.
FAQs for Employers
Updated and new FAQs are noted with the date.
Looking for helpful information for your employees? Please visit our Unemployment Facts and How to File for Benefits publications.
UPDATED May 20: Are independent contractors or self-employed workers covered?
Yes. Labor is now making payments for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. Find details about the benefit on our Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program web page.
NEW May 12, 2021: What do I do if my employees refuse to return to work?
If a worker is receiving unemployment, they have an obligation to accept suitable work. If they refuse to accept work, the Labor Department should review the situation. Please email us details including when the employee was asked to return to work and how the offer was made at work.refusal@labor.idaho.gov. Please do not include the employee’s Social Security number to help prevent identity theft.
Will workers qualify for unemployment benefits if the coronavirus (COVID-19) causes an employer to temporarily or permanently shut down operations?
Unemployment insurance (UI) benefits are available to individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own. If an employer shuts down operations and no work is available or reduces an individual’s hours due to a drop in business, we would consider this a lay off due to lack of work and the individual may be eligible for benefits. Anyone can apply for benefits, and we will evaluate the individual merits. If there is a situation not covered by these FAQs, the individual may want to file a claim and we will evaluate the circumstances to determine eligibility. Individuals do not need to call us before filing the claim. Click here for more information.
UPDATED April 9: If an employee receives unemployment benefits as a result of a coronavirus-related business shutdown, will my unemployment insurance account be charged?
It depends. Part of Gov. Brad Little’s emergency proclamation provides that experience rated employers (most businesses) will not be charged for unemployment claims attributed to COVID-19. There is also a 50 percent reduction in proportionate costs for cost reimbursed employers (non-profit and government employers). There is no need to protest your chargeability determination at this time. Additional information about tax relief for employers from the IRS is available here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
Updated May 12, 2021: Will my employees be required to look for work if I had to temporarily or permanently shut down operations for work because of coronavirus (COVID-19)?
It depends. If they are unemployed due to COVID-19 related reasons and you are plan on having them return to work within 16 weeks, they are not required to register for work or seek work. They will need to answer ‘yes’ to the question asking if they are returning to work on the UI application. If they are not returning with you, they will be required complete two work search activities per week. Click here for more information.
NEW May 12, 2021: How can a company get workers back if they are considered attached and the company opens back up but the employees would prefer to get UI instead?
First, be sure you communicate the expectation to return to work with as much detail as possible at the time they become separated. Then, ensure they were clearly instructed to come back — speak with them, send an email to the email address, text them, etc. Then, let the Labor Department know who didn’t come back by emailing work.refusal@labor.idaho.gov — that person is missing available work and would need a qualifying reason to do so (either a personal compelling reason or an illness, and even then it has to be less than 1/2 of their weekly benefit amount).
NEW May 20: How do I let you know when my employees return to work?
The easiest way to report an employee’s return to work or a new employee, is through the New Hire reporting process. Information is available at the Idaho Department of Labor New Hire page.
NEW April 9: I am unable to respond to department’s requests for information within the protest deadline.
Part of Gov. Brad Little’s emergency proclamation provides an additional 14 days for employers and claimants to protest determinations made by the department. Please submit the information as instructed, despite the untimely response.
Can employees work part time and receive unemployment?
Yes. They can receive some or all of their weekly unemployment payment if they work part time. Gross earnings must be reported on the weekly certification during the week earned (not when paid). Click here to learn how the wages affect unemployment payments.
If there is a separation due to the coronavirus, am I required to pay accrued vacation/PTO or sick pay?
It depends. Idaho law does not require the payment of vacation, holiday or sick pay. These items are agreed upon between the employer and the employee. If there is any change in a policy, the employee must be notified prior to the change. For U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour guidance on issues around COVID-19, its effects on wages and hours worked under the Fair Labor Standards Act and job-protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act, visit: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic.
NEW April 6: If I share part of my businesses stimulus package with my employees, will it impact their unemployment benefits?
Yes. This is reportable income categorized as ‘other income,’ and reportable in the week they receive it.
NEW May 20: Are my employees required to report the payments I have made to them while they have been furloughed and receiving unemployment insurance benefits?
If an individual is receiving unemployment insurance benefits, that individual is required to report the earnings they receive in the same fashion they would if they were working for wages. If you have reason to believe they are not, please let us know at fraud@labor.idaho.gov.
NEW May 20: Do I have an obligation to notify employees at the time of separation from employment of the availability of unemployment compensation?
Yes. Under Families First Coronavirus Response Act (PL 116-127), employers must provide notification of the availability of unemployment compensation to employees at the time of separation from employment. Sample language for employers’ use in meeting this notification can be found on the Labor website in this PDF.
If we are planning / hoping to reopen on April 6 should employees still file immediately for unemployment? And, if we pay out sick leave / time off, does that impact the waiting period?
We recommend your employees apply as soon as they experience a reduction of hours. Paid leave is reportable and may impact the weekly payment or waiting week credit.
Are employees required to use paid time off such as earned vacation or sick leave before they can apply for unemployment?
No.
Is there an extra $600 of UI benefits available to employees that are out of work due to child care/school closures due to the coronavirus shut-down. if so, is this in addition to the regular weekly benefit or a new maximum benefit over the $405 weekly benefit?
The $600 from the CARES Act is in addition to regular benefit amount.
Pingback: Resources For Comics Industry Businesses Impacted By Coronavirus | Comic Book Legal Defense Fund
This information shows as posted March 18, 2020. Is this current information after IDoL reviewed the H.R. 6201 signed by President Trump? Or is that information still to be reviewed by IDoL?
Yes, this information is current.
If my work shuts down due to the covid 19 but plans on opening back up as soon as they can and I file for unemployment do I still need to look for a job while on unemployment?
This might answer your question: Do I have to seek work?
It depends. If you are unemployed due to COVID-19 related reasons and are returning to work with your employer, you are not required to register for work or seek work. Make sure to answer ‘yes’ to the question asking if you are returning to work on your UI application. If you are not returning with your employer, you will be required complete two work search activities per week. Click here for more information.
If it says you are “work seeking” because you mistakenly clicked no instead of yes on the questionnaire but you plan to return to work at your previous employment do you have to call in to fix that portion?
This FAQ was added after you asked your question:
If the question was marked incorrectly, you will initially be coded as work seeking, but our claim specialists are correcting this for you as quickly as possible. Many customers answered this question incorrectly due to the unique circumstances we are in. If a claim specialist has already corrected your work search requirement, you will be asked if you maintained contact with your employer when you submit your weekly certification. If a claim specialist has not yet corrected your work search requirements, you will be asked to provide at least two work search contacts. Answer that you are unable to report two work search contacts for the week. A question will appear asking: “you indicated you did not seek work for this benefit week, is that correct?” Answer yes. You will be asked to select the reason you did not seek work. Click on Other. Indicate you will be returning to work with your employer as soon as COVID-19 restrictions subside. A claim specialist will review these weekly reports, waive the work search requirement and correct your work search status on your claim.
If employees in Idaho have forced hour reductions to staff are they eligible for UI?
This might answer your question: Can employees work part time and receive unemployment?
Yes. They can receive some or all of their weekly unemployment payment if they work part time. Gross earnings must be reported on the weekly certification during the week earned (not when paid). Click here to learn how the wages affect unemployment payments.
I closed our brick and mortar location, but transitioned some of our work to a virtual platform. However, there is a decrease in normal hours worked for all employees with this transition. Can they file for unemployment to cover the decrease in hours?
This might answer your question: Can employees work part time and receive unemployment?
Yes. They can receive some or all of their weekly unemployment payment if they work part time. Gross earnings must be reported on the weekly certification during the week earned (not when paid).
If an employee becomes infected as a result of their work, will Worker’s Compensation Apply? Can you tell m who to contact regarding this?
Please see the U.S. Department of Labor website: https://www.dol.gov/coronavirus
I filed for unemployment in January but was deemed ineligble and my portal says I can’t file for unemployment benefits until 4/4/2020. Since then, I now have a full time job since the end of January but it is now being affected due to COVID-19. I’ve been trying to call the claim number everyday with no luck of an answer.Would I be able to get my file date waived since we are in a national disaster?
You’ll need to talk to a claims specialist about your specific circumstances.
Is there a quick way for employers to reply to the unemployment claims due to COVID19? We have over 100 employees – making it difficult to spend the 10-15 minutes needed on each to reply to all of the unemployment questions.
The quickest way to receive and respond to unemployment insurance claims is through SIDES E-Response. You can register your business at http://www.labor.idaho.gov/sides
How do we contact a representative to request and extension on a claim response? I left a message 2-3 business days ago and have not gotten a cal back. Today the lines is busy. Thank you
If you left a message, the team will call you back as quickly as they can.
My understanding is that now self-employed workers can claim unemployment benefits according to the current version of the stimulus bill. What do they need to do? Do we need to complete regular application?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
If our employees are claiming UI as a result of C19 causing a lack of work, are employers required to respond to the claims? Our SIDES email reads: “Please note, if the claimant was laid off due to lack of work, a response is not required.”
That is correct. No response is needed.
Pingback: A State-by-State Guide to COVID-19 for Retailers
The Federal government has provisions to make the unemployment claims paid because of Covid19 non chargeable to the employer account. Is Idaho going to honor this provision?
A new FAQ was added on Friday, March 27: If an employee receives unemployment benefits as a result of a coronavirus-related business shutdown, will my unemployment insurance account be charged?
It depends. Part of Gov. Brad Little’s emergency proclamation provides that experience rated employers (most businesses) will not be charged for unemployment claims attributed to COVID-19. There is no change to cost reimbursed employers. Cost reimbursed employers include non-profit and government employers. Information about tax relief for employers from the IRS is available here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
I’m still unsure if Idaho plans to raise unemployment premiums for an experience related employer that has claims directly related to covid-19. Or, if it will be taken from the money contributed by the federal government.
Has anything new developed on this?
This FAQ may answer your question: If an employee receives unemployment benefits as a result of a coronavirus-related business shutdown, will my unemployment insurance account be charged?
It depends. Part of Gov. Brad Little’s emergency proclamation provides that experience rated employers (most businesses) will not be charged for unemployment claims attributed to COVID-19. There is no change to cost reimbursed employers. Cost reimbursed employers include non-profit and government employers. Information about tax relief for employers from the IRS is available here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
For employees being temporarily laid off with the plan to be back working for the same company once the stay at home order passes, should they file as laid off due to lack of work, or as a leave of absence?
This FAQ might answer your question: Will I be required to look for work if I am temporarily out of for work because of coronavirus (COVID-19)?
No. If you are unemployed due to COVID-19 related reasons and will be returning to work with your employer, you are not required to seek work or register for work with us. Answer ‘yes’ to the question asking if you are returning to work on your unemployment application. You are still required to submit your weekly reports and to maintain contact with your employer.
Are small business owners now ordered to close as of the order yesterday eligible to apply for unemployment insurance? Also other states are taking these emergency coronavirus claims out of the pool rather than charging the to the businesses. Is this happening in Idaho? Is Idaho waiving the week delay and the requirement to seek jobs like many other states are?
New FAQs were added on Friday, March 27 which address your questions.
I have heard there will be a additional $600 added on to the amount of UI payed every week. Is this true? And is IDOL waiving the waiting week?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
On your second question, a new FAQ was added on Friday, March 27: Will my waiting week be waived?
It depends. If you filed your claim on or after 3/8/2020, the waiting week is waived for the length of Gov. Brad Little’s proclamation. If you filed your claim prior to 3/8/2020, there are no provisions to waive the waiting week. Click here for more information.
Pingback: WA Issues Employment Security Emergency Rules | Associated Industries Blog Archive » Associated Industries
Pingback: Benefits for Employees Affected by COVID-19 | Associated Industries Blog Archive » Associated Industries
We have been deemed an essential business. We have implemented disinfectant and social safe distance protocols and work outdoors. We have a few employees that WANT to self isolate, not because they are ill or have COVID-19 symptoms, but rather they are hoping to take advantage of the “Stay at Home” recommendations. If we have work for them to do and they are not laid off, but choose to stay at home to ease their own anxiety, are they eligible for unemployment benefits? We have told them we believe they would not be eligible, but would like some clarity.
This FAQ may answer your question: What if I quit my job because I am generally concerned over the COVID-19 virus?
It depends. Quitting for health reasons may be good cause. This would be determined on a case-by-case review.
Their number is constantly busy. Seriously, case by case… that’s gonna take time.. we don’t have time because some of work paycheck to paycheck.????
Our phone lines are overwhelmed with the number of calls we are getting. We have additional staff answering calls and are answering them as quickly as we can. We do not have a time estimate however. We appreciate your patience as we try to help everyone. You might check LiveBetterIdaho.org – a state website listing other resources available.
Is a car salesman at a dealership an essential job? Can salesmen stay at home even though the employer deems it essential?
Please review the state website for the list of essential jobs and services. https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/
Can employees file for unemployment if the employer temporarily reduces hours? For example, the employee is FT (40 hrs/wk) and is reduced to PT (20 hr/wk). Thank you.
This FAQ might answer your question:
Can employees work part time and receive unemployment?
Yes. They can receive some or all of their weekly unemployment payment if they work part time. Gross earnings must be reported on the weekly certification during the week earned (not when paid). Click here to learn how the wages affect unemployment payments.
Can my employer require me to stay home for 72hrs+ and use PTO or unpaid leave if I am sick (ate some spoiled food), but have no symptoms related to COVID-19? Assuming on day two that all my non-covid-19 symptoms have subsided.
Please see the U.S. Department of Labor website to see if there are answers to your questions: https://www.dol.gov/coronavirus
Can my employer not allow me to report to work if I am showing no symptoms of COVID-19, but have traveled domestically to area that does not have any local health notices recommending isolation after traveling to said area?
Please see if the U.S. Department of Labor website has answers to your questions: https://www.dol.gov/coronavirus
How does a self employed person apply for UI? This is a new option it seems. What are the steps?
The CAREs Act expanded the unemployment insurance program to include Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). This program allows payment for individuals who are not eligible for regular benefits, particularly self-employed individuals. We are working with the U.S. Department of Labor on further details so we can implement these changes, which could take several weeks. Please apply for benefits online at labor.idaho.gov/claimantportal and continue to submit your weekly certifications. Enter your work history on the online application as self-employment. We will inform you of any changes that will potentially affect your unemployment benefit claim.
Is there any unemployment benefits available for owners of small businesses who’ve been effected by coronavirus?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
Are you anticipating that self employed workers will be included in the federal stimulus?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
Is there information somewhere on employees who work in multiple states? I believe you can only claim unemployment in a single state. Is there guidance on how to advise employees to reflect wages from both states?
Normally, you will apply in the state you physically worked in within the last 18 months. Each situation is slightly different and each state calculates benefit amounts differently. You may visit this site to determine which state potentially pays the most in benefits: https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/UnemploymentBenefits/find-unemployment-benefits.aspx
Major news sites are reporting that claimants that recently exhausted their UI benifits will receive 12 weeks of additional benefits and an additioanal 600.00 per week under the stimulus bill. Does this apply in Idaho and if so how do I apply?
We do not have details on timing but this answers the question generally.
I have exhausted my UI benefits. Are additional benefits available?
Yes. The CAREs Act expanded the unemployment insurance program to include Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC). This program extends benefits for claimants who exhaust their regular benefits. We are working with the U.S. Department of Labor on further details so we can implement these changes. If you have exhausted benefits, please continue to submit your weekly certifications. You will be made aware of any changes that will potentially affect your unemployment benefit claim.
Didn’t the President provide benefits for self employed business owners?? How does one file for those benefits when, your doors are required to be closed?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
My understanding is that now self-employed workers can claim unemployment benefits according to the current version of the stimulus bill. What do they need to do? Do we need to complete regular application?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
According to the bill signed yesterday, self-employed and independent contractors are eligible for unemployment? Is this correct?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
If you have exhausted much of your unemployment due to being on seasonal unemployment, what do you do then? My son is in landscaping and all were on seasonal unemployment and now they really need assistance getting a fresh start or clean slate for the time limits of unemployment. Please respond.
This FAQ answers the question. We do not have details on timing.
I have exhausted my UI benefits. Are additional benefits available?
Yes. The CAREs Act expanded the unemployment insurance program to include Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC). This program extends benefits for claimants who exhaust their regular benefits. We are working with the U.S. Department of Labor on further details so we can implement these changes. If you have exhausted benefits, please continue to submit your weekly certifications. You will be made aware of any changes that will potentially affect your unemployment benefit claim.
I know a couple landscape business that are hiring due to them being classified as essential workers. If he is concerned maby try some of them.
I’m a self employed online businessman with a tremendous loss of revenue due to Covid 19. Am I eligible for benefits? If so, how do I fill out the job search section since I won’t be actively looking for a job but instead still try to maintain my at home business?
Lawmakers agreed to a significant expansion of the unemployment insurance program. Additional compensation, extensions, and assistance for self-employed individuals are on the way. We’re working out the details with our partners at the United States Department of Labor and hope to implement the changes as soon as possible. We will update the FAQs when we have new information.
With all office closed: DOL, DMV, etc…How can a person put an UI claim in if they do not have an Idaho Drivers license or state ID from Idaho; but have worked in for 3 years in the state? The online will not validate your claim until a valid Idaho number is inputted, and there is no way at this time to get an i.d. or drivers license
If you file online and have an identification card or out-of-state driver’s license, your online profile information will remain unverified, but please continue with the online application.
How can i update or redo a cliam i missed up on if i cant get ahold of anyone on the phone cause of high call volume with COVID-19
Our phone lines are overwhelmed with the number of calls we are getting. We have additional staff answering calls and are answering them as quickly as we can. We do not have a time estimate however. We appreciate your patience as we try to help everyone.
Do you have an anticipated time when you will have answers about self-employed business owners being able to file for benefits?
Please apply for benefits online at labor.idaho.gov/claimantportal and continue to submit your weekly certifications. Enter your work history on the online application as self-employment. We will inform you of any changes that will potentially affect your unemployment benefit claim.
The governor recently implemented the “Shelter in place/Stay at home” order stating that all non-essential employees/people must stay home for at least 21 day’s possibly longer. This makes it almost impossible for people to look for work. Are people who are receiving unemployment benefits still required to look for work while this order is still in place?
If you are unemployed due to COVID-19 related reasons and will be returning to work with your employer, you are not required to seek work or register for work with us. Answer ‘yes’ to the question asking if you are returning to work on your unemployment application. You are still required to submit your weekly reports and to maintain contact with your employer.
If the employer is paying the employees wages during the COVID 19 shutdown, can the employees still qualify for UI? Are they still required to look for work?
Idaho does not currently have a program to address reduction in pay. If your hours have been reduced to less than full time, you could potentially qualify for benefits.
Pingback: Idaho COVID-19 UI Update
What if your employer refuses to close a non-essential business despite the Governor’s order? What should an employee do and would they qualify for unemployment if they’re not making what they normally would?
Idaho does not currently have a program to address reduction in pay. If your hours have been reduced to less than full time, you could potentially qualify for benefits.
How does one satisfy both the requirement to look for work and the requirement to shelter in place?
If you are unemployed due to COVID-19 related reasons and will be returning to work with your employer, you are not required to seek work or register for work with us. Answer ‘yes’ to the question asking if you are returning to work on your unemployment application. You are still required to submit your weekly reports and to maintain contact with your employer.
Can your employer require an employee to use their PTO before they can received unemployment?
No.
Can I file unemployment due to the fact that I need to stay home with my children while they are out of school?
This FAQ may answer your question: What if I leave work because my child’s school has temporarily closed, and I feel I have to stay home with the child?
An individual who leaves work voluntarily without a reason attributable to the employer is generally disqualified from receiving UI. The reason the individual in this situation left work would not be considered attributable to the employer. Consequently, the individual would likely not qualify for UI. If you are unable or unavailable for work, you would not meet the able and available requirements to qualify for benefits.
Am I eligible for COVID unemployment if I have only worked two months in the state of Idaho?
Thank you,
Steve
It is difficult to address every situation; each situation will be determined individually. Please continue to submit your weekly certifications, answer the questions honestly, and we will contact you for additional information regarding your eligibility.
I am already on unemployment. Due to the Corvid-19 virus the business I work for will not be able to start when we wanted to. I am almost out of time on my claim. I have to have some time left for the end of the year because we are a seasonal company (construction). So I get laid off the end of November and then go back full time the first part of April. Is there something in place that can help me? What should I do?
Part of the CARES Act will extend regular unemployment insurance benefits once they exhaust. We anticipate that extended weeks will include the $600 per week. We are currently working with the federal government on implementation. Please continue submitting weekly reports for potential backdating.
I have an employee that voluntarily took planned time off to travel (out of state). Her flight home was cancelled and that delayed her getting home for 4 days. We are open and working. She developed a significant cough and some other signs of illness (but has not been tested for Covid-19). Her doctor advised her to self-isolate for a minimum of 1 month. She has asked me to lay her off…but we have work and her hours are available. Is this an unemployment issue or a disability issue?
This FAQ may answer the question:
What if I am confined to my home because of COVID-19?
It depends. If you are physically or mentally unable to work due to COVID-19, you generally would not meet the availability requirements to qualify for benefits. If you are isolated (quarantined) due to direction of a medical professional, local health district, your employer or state/local government, you may be eligible if you are off work because of COVID-19 and provided you are returning to work with your employer. If you are unemployed due to the Governor’s stay home order, you may be eligible for benefits.
Do employers have to give advanced notice to the state or to the employees if they have to do a mass layoff due to the COVID-19 situation?
If the employer falls under the criteria of the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, then the employer must notify both their employees (and the employees’ authorized representative) and the state workforce agency (the Idaho Department of Labor) a minimum of 60 days before the mass layoff or plant closure is to take place. Although the Act does allow for exceptions to the requirement, notice of the event (layoff or closure) must still be provided. Please see the attached link for more information – https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ETA/Layoff/pdfs/_EmployerWARN2003.pdf
It says in the FAQ that My account will not be charged for claims that are made. I have received letters from the DOL saying I will be charged. Is that true, or something that will be changed?
The decision to relieve an employer account of charges will be made once it’s been determined that the worker is out of work for reasons related to the COVID-19 crisis. If a worker’s employment ended for other reasons, the employer’s account may still be charged.
Employees with vacation time, do we have to pay that out to them if they file for unemployment due to the layoff of COVID 19?