In Alabama, more money for unemployment compensation

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Department of Industrial Relations Director Tom Surtees
announced today that the maximum weekly Unemployment Compensation benefit
amount will increase by ten dollars for claimants who file new claims on or after July 5th.
The maximum benefit amount will increase from $255 a week to $265 a week beginning
July 5th. The increase is the second of two that were enacted by the Legislature in 2008.
“We’re glad to see this increase go into effect,” said Surtees. “I know that during these
tough economic times, every dollar helps. I hope that this increase will help struggling
families until such a time as they can find new employment.”
All claimants are also receiving an additional $25 a week, which is part of the Federal
Stimulus package. These $25 additional benefits are expected to continue through the
end of 2009.
It’s important to note that ONLY CLAIMS FILED ON OR AFTER JULY 5TH will be
eligible for this increase.
Unemployed Alabamians can file for unemployment compensation benefits in two ways:
either by phone at 1-866-234-5382, or online at http://www.dir.alabama.gov.
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Members of the media seeking more information should contact Public Information
Officer Tara Hutchison at (334) 242-8616.