Disaster Unemployment Information for Employers

The Division of Employment Security (DES) processes disaster-related claims to get unemployment funds to people quickly. Disaster Unemployment Assistance is a federal program that provides temporary payments to people who are unemployed as a direct result of a federally declared major disaster.

Will my account be charged for unemployment claims because of Hurricane Helene?

No; employers are not charged for unemployment insurance benefits paid as a direct result of a federally declared disaster.

My business is [temporarily] shut down. How do I help my employees get unemployment quickly?

DES is accepting employer-filed claims. There is a dedicated team of DES staff who will help employers file claims on behalf of their employees. To get help, email NCDES-HeleneEmpSupport@commerce.nc.gov or call 866-278-3822.

DES has waived the normal requirements of employer-filed claims as a direct result of Hurricane Helene. Employers can file claims for a period of more than six weeks of benefits and can submit a claim for an employee more than once in a year. Employers do not need to have a positive credit balance with DES to file attached claims.

Do I have to prepay the cost of unemployment benefits?

DES has waived the prepay requirements of employer-filed claims that are a direct result of Hurricane Helene.

Make It Faster

• If able, please respond to the Employer Request for Separation Information. Claims are still processed if you are unable to respond. You can protest at a later date.
• Know that DES may need more information. We will either call or email you for details.
• Monitor your business communications to the extent possible for information from DES about unemployment claims filed against your account.
• Review your Potential Benefit Charges through your NCSUITS account, online at des.nc.gov.