Options for California Employees Impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Corona Virus (COVID -19) has detrimentally impacted California workers in recent weeks and has left many employees asking questions about what their options are if they have been impacted by layoffs, wage loss, or lost time at work due to quarantines. This article is meant to provide just a few options California employees have, depending on their situation.

1. Can I get unemployment benefits if I have lost my job due to Cornavirus (COVID -19)?

Yes. If you have lost your job because your employer has been forced to close or forced to lay off employees due to Coronavirus, then you likely qualify for unemployment benefits through the EDD. You can apply for unemployment benefits here.

2. If I am unable to work because I have been diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19) or because I am quarantined due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), am I entitled to any benefits?

Yes. If your doctor provides a certification (a note) confirming that you are unable to work due to being quarantined or diagnosed with COVID-19, then you can apply for short term disability benefits through the California EDD. You can apply for short term disability benefits here.

3. If my hours have been cut (reduced) because of Coronavirus (COVID-19), can I recover unemployment benefits?

Yes. Even if you are still working, you may be entitled to unemployment benefits if you have suffered partial loss of wages because your hours have been reduced due to no fault of your own. Again, you can apply for unemployment benefits for a partial wage loss here.

4. If I am unable to work because I am caring for a family member who has been diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19), am I entitled to any benefits?

Yes. If you have a full or partial loss of wages because you are caring for an ill family member, you can apply for Paid Family Leave and could be entitled to up to 6 weeks of paid leave. You can apply for Paid Family leave here.