Denied For Unemployment? You Might Be Eligible For Arizona’s PUA Program During the Pandemic After All

The Department of Economic Security (DES) in Arizona announced Monday that the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program will send initial payments to 165,000 individuals who did not qualified for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits.

The Department of Economic Security (DES) just launched a program that will give more than $350 million to people who were initially ineligible for unemployment.

DES announced Monday that the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program will send initial payments to 165,000 individuals who did not qualify for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits.

This applies to workers who are self-employed, independent contractors, and those who work in the gig economy such as Uber, Postmates, or DoorDash. 

Those who filed their first claim between February 2, 2020, and May 2, 2020 who did not meet the criteria for unemployment benefits, but do qualify for the PUA, will receive an initial payment of $117 per week, plus an extra $600 in weekly benefits from the CARES Act. 

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey said in a press release, “The Department of Economic Security has worked around the clock to stand up this new program and get these benefits to Arizonans faster.” 

DES Director Tom Betlach added, “DES recognizes how critical this funding is for many individuals who do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance. “We are making these initial payments totaling more than $350 million to get money into the pockets of Arizonans as quickly as possible.”

PUA will provide benefits ranging from $117 to $240 per week for up to 39 weeks. 

Starting on May 12, applicants can access the PUA portal to check or confirm eligibility, provide information, and determine weekly benefit amounts. 

Notices from DES and PUA will be sent to applicants so they know which documentation can be submitted to determine ongoing eligibility. 

According to DES, the fastest way for applicants to receive their PUA benefits is through direct deposit. That information can be added through the PUA online portal.

Those who are unsure whether their claim was denied for being “monetarily ineligible” can check the status of their claim here. 

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