Even as economic stimulus checks are arriving and assisting Oklahomans to meet everyday expenses, other programs are being set up or enacted to help families stay on an even keel until the pandemic closures and layoffs pass.
One such program is for self-employed, gig workers (think Uber) or independent contractors. Those individuals are not usually eligible for unemployment compensation. The new program may also benefit workers whose unemployment benefits have been used up and were laid off or furloughed because of the Covid-19 closures.
This program is through the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission and it is accepting preapplications now.
Applicants for the program, known as PUA, can begin their preapplication at https://ui.ok.gov/ and click on the get started button on the secure website.
“We encourage everyone who doesn’t qualify for regular unemployment benefits to complete the PUA pre-application,” Roberson said. “Once you’ve completed the PUA pre-application, you’re already in line when we begin paying out this relief.”
That relief, though, hasn’t been released yet, and is considered pending. The upside is that payments, when they become available, will be backdated to the job loss date or business closure. Approved applicants will receive an additional $600 weekly through July 25. Those wishing to apply should make sure they qualify and have the necessary information on hand before beginning the application. Anyone who has been denied regular unemployment should apply for PUA compensation.
Another program that can help ease the pain of job loss is from the Oklahoma Human Services, which is changing the existing Energy Crisis Assistance Program. That program helps pay utility bills.
Changes include assistance to those with any cutoff notice after March 17, even if the utility has suspended disconnects. Households approved for ECAP will be issued the maximum $500 annual benefit for crisis assistance. If the household has received a low-income home energy assistance program life threatening crisis benefit, if they apply for ECAP can receive the remaining benefit, not to exceed $500.
Households that have already been accepted for ECAP will be issued an additional payment up to the maximum annual benefit. They do not have to reapply.
If an applicant was denied previously, they should reapply at www.OKDHSLive.org
Eligibility requirements include customers with a cutoff notice, refusal to restore service or deliver fuel without payment notice, or those with an estimated security deposit notice for establishment of service.
To apply, gather the most recent utility bill, shut off notice, IDs, Social Security number and verification of income to begin.
Income limits are $1,316 for a single individual and increases by $468 per month for each additional household member. Native American households can apply online or through their tribe but cannot receive assistance from both the OKDHS and their tribe during the same fiscal year.
Connie Burcham can be reached at Editor@WatongaRepublican.com