The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Economic Stimulus Legislation, H. R. 1)

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Economic Stimulus Legislation, H. R. 1) provides new funding for reemployment services and other workforce programs.  It also extends Emergency Unemployment Compensation.

Weekly benefit increased $25:

• If you are receiving benefits for the week ending February 28, 2009 or later, your weekly benefit amount will be increased by $25.

• The first payable week to include the $25 is the week ending February 28, 2009.  You will begin receiving the $25 increase by the week ending May 2.  You will receive the retroactive amount owed to you in one payment by the week ending May 2.

• Those receiving Alternative Trade Adjustment Assistance (ATAA) benefits are not eligible for the $25 increase.

Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC08):

• If you are eligible for EUC, an application will be mailed to the last address on record with the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC).  This application is not mailed until your current benefits are exhausted. 

• If you have not received an application and you believe you are eligible, you may request an application from your local VEC office.

• The emergency benefits will be available for claimants filing an initial EUC claim before or on December 20, 2009, who have not already received EUC.

• No additional EUC benefits are available for those individuals who have already exhausted their EUC.