Unemployed due to flooding may be eligible for assistance | News

(KFVS) - Residents and business owners out of work because of severed storms and flooding in April and May in 14 southern Illinois counties could be eligible for federal disaster assistance.

The federal government declared Alexander, Franklin, Gallatin, Hardin, Jackson, Lawrence, Massac, Perry, Pople Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, White and Williamson counties disaster areas after the rains and flooding that occurred beginning April 19.

Those people whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted because of the rain and flooding in those 14 counties could be eligible for financial assistance.

The federal disaster declaration allows people in the area to access to temporary housing, grants or loans to help with flood-related losses.

Businesses might qualify for low-interest loans.

Applications are available at Illinois Department of Employment Security offices from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.:

• Murphysboro: 223 S. 13th St., Murphysboro, IL 62966 (618) 687-2341
• Marion: 8195 Express Drive, Marion, IL 62959 (618) 997-6835
• Mt. Vernon: 833 Potomac Blvd, Suite E, Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 (618) 244-1700
• Effingham: 2311 Hoffman Drive, Effingham, IL 62401 (217) 342-4149
• Belleville: 4519 W. Main St., Belleville, IL 62223 (618) 277-5678

To apply, people will need their Social Security number, the name and address of their employer, and proof that flooding interrupted the opportunity to work.  They will also need a copy of the most recent federal income tax forms or check stub.  Self-employed people should provide Schedules SE and Schedule C or Schedule F from their tax returns.

People can receive benefits as long as their unemployment continues as a result of the disaster.  Eligibility will be determined on a week-to-week basis.

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