Can I file partial unemployment? Been off work since school was close down.

Q) I’m a school bus driver in Va. I have a contract and they are paying out our basic pay which less than what I would get doing normal school day. Can I file partial unemployment? Been off work since school was close down do it the virus.

A) Yes, you may be eligible for partial unemployment benefits in Virginia if you are a school bus driver who is currently not working due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be able to work and available to work.
• You must have lost wages due to a reduction in hours or a layoff.
• Your weekly earnings must be less than your weekly benefit amount.

To file for partial unemployment benefits, you will need to contact your local unemployment office. You can find the contact information for your local unemployment office on the Virginia Department of Labor website.

When you file for benefits, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your name, address, and Social Security number.
• Your employer’s name and contact information.
• The dates you were laid off or had your hours reduced.
• Your weekly earnings.

You may also need to provide additional information, such as your bank account information.

Once you have filed for benefits, you will be required to file weekly claims. To file a weekly claim, you can visit the Virginia Department of Labor website or call the unemployment office.

If you are approved for partial unemployment benefits, you will receive a weekly benefit payment. The amount of your benefit payment will depend on your weekly earnings and the number of dependents you have.

You can find more information about partial unemployment benefits on the Virginia Department of Labor website.

Here are some additional tips for filing for partial unemployment benefits:

• File your claim as soon as possible after you are laid off or have your hours reduced.
• Keep a copy of all of your paperwork for your records.
• If you have any questions, contact your local unemployment office.

I hope this helps!