Federal Government Shutdown FAQs
If you have been furloughed as a direct result of the federal shutdown, you may be eligible for regular unemployment benefits.
Q: Am I eligible for unemployment benefits?
A: You may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits during a furlough. You may apply on or after the first day you are furloughed. Your eligibility will be determined based upon the state’s unemployment insurance laws.
Q: Where do I file for Unemployment Benefits?
A: A furloughed federal employee should file a claim with the state in which the individual had his or her last official duty station.
Q: How do I file for Unemployment Benefits?
A: If your last official duty station is in North Carolina, your claim should be filed in this state. The quickest way to file a North Carolina claim is online at des.nc.gov. To find contact information for any state, please visit the following website: http://www.servicelocator.org/.
Q: What documentation do I need?
A: To avoid delays, be prepared to provide form SF-8, form SF-50 and/or copies of your paystubs for the period of July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.
Q: The claim application mentions a job search requirement. Do I have to search for a job while furloughed?
A: Yes. If you are filing with North Carolina, you must complete at least three work search contacts for each week that you claim benefits.
Q: What if I am working some hours but not getting paid?
A: Employees who work during a government shutdown are required to report their hours worked and their expected wages each week they file for unemployment insurance benefits. You must report wages for the week they are earned, not when they are paid.
Q: How much will I get paid each week, and how long will benefits last?
A: North Carolina’s maximum weekly benefit amount is $350. Duration of benefits is 12 weeks.
Q: Will I get paid for every week I am out of work?
A: No. If you are filing with North Carolina, the first week you are eligible for unemployment benefits is a mandatory unpaid waiting week.
Q: What happens if I receive back pay after the shutdown ends?
A: Employees who receive unemployment insurance benefits and later receive a retroactive payment from their employer for the same time period will be required to repay the unemployment insurance benefits received.
Q: I am a federal contractor that is affected by the shutdown. Should I file for unemployment insurance benefits?
A: Filing for unemployment insurance benefits during the shutdown is a personal choice. If you file and later receive back pay for hours worked during the shutdown, you will be required to repay any unemployment insurance benefits you received.
Q: What if I am required to work during the furlough but am not being paid?
A: Employees who work during a government shutdown and are filing for unemployment insurance benefits are required to report their hours worked and their expected wages each week. You must report wages for the week they are earned, not when they are paid.