MDES announces Pandemic Unemployment Assistance

Mississippians unable to work during the coronavirus crisis can apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance through the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.

Residents who live, or work, in the state and could not work because of the coronavirus outbreak are entitled to, and can apply for PUA.

People able to apply for PUA:

1. Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or, are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and are seeking a medical diagnosis
2. Became the breadwinner or major support for a household because the head of the household has died as a direct result of COVID-19
3. Quit his or her job as a direct result of COVID-19
4. Their place of employment is closed as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency
5. Have a member of their household that has been diagnosed with COVID-19
6. Is providing care for a family member or a member of their household who has been diagnosed with COVID-19
7. Has a child or other person in the household for which they have primary caregiving responsibility that is unable to attend school or another facility closed as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency and such school or facility care is required for the individual to work
8. Is unable to reach the place of employment because of a quarantine imposed as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency
9. Was scheduled to commence employment and does not have a job or is unable to reach the job as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency, and
10. Unable to reach the place of employment because the individual has been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine due to concerns related to COVID-19.

Self-employed, independent contractors, anyone employed by a church or religious entity, non-profit employees, gig economy workers, those with insufficient wages to establish a claim under regular unemployment compensation and those who become unemployed, or partially unemployed may also be eligible for PUA.

Individuals in Mississippi can apply online 24 hours a day at www.mdes.ms.gov or by calling toll-free 1-833-919-0334 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday.