Can I receive a pink slip or declaration showing reduction of income due to COVID?

Unfortunately, the Chikasha, OK unemployment center or the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) does not typically issue a specific document called a “pink slip” or a formal “declaration showing reduction of income due to COVID-19” for unemployment benefit recipients.

Here’s why and what you can likely obtain instead to meet your tribe’s requirements for utility assistance:

• Unemployment Benefit Records: The OESC keeps records of your unemployment benefits, including the dates you received them and the weekly amounts. This information serves as proof of unemployment and a likely reduction in your regular income.
• 1099-G Tax Form: Each year, the OESC sends out a 1099-G form, which details the total unemployment compensation you received during the previous tax year. This could serve as documentation of income loss, especially if you were employed before and then received unemployment due to COVID-19-related job loss. You can access a digital version of your 1099-G online through the Oklahoma.gov unemployment portal.
• Benefit Verification Letter: You may be able to request a letter from the OESC verifying your unemployment benefits, the dates you received them, and potentially the reason for your unemployment if it was documented in your initial claim.

Here’s how you can try to get the documentation you need:

1. Contact the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) directly:
   • Phone: 405-525-1500 (Individual Unemployment Support)
   • Website: https://oklahoma.gov/oesc/individuals/unemployment.html
   • Inquire about:
     • Obtaining records of your unemployment benefits.
     • Requesting a benefit verification letter that might indicate the start date of your benefits (which could correlate with COVID-19-related job losses).
     • Accessing your 1099-G tax form if the benefit period aligns with the assistance requirements.
2. Visit the Chickasha Oklahoma Works office (American Job Center):
   • Address: 205 W Chickasha Avenue Suite 2, Chickasha, OK 73018
   • Phone: 405-224-3310
   • They may be able to assist you in accessing your unemployment information online or guide you on how to request documentation from the OESC.

Regarding the Chickasaw Nation’s utility assistance program, their requirements typically include:

• Proof of residency within the Chickasaw Nation boundaries.
• Income eligibility documentation for all household members over 18 (or a signed non-income statement).
• A copy of your current utility bill.
• It’s crucial to contact the Chickasaw Nation’s program directly to confirm exactly what documentation they will accept as proof of reduced income due to COVID-19. Explain your situation and the documentation you can obtain from the OESC.

Chickasaw Nation Contact Information for Assistance Programs:

You can find contact information for their various community service programs, including energy assistance, on the Chickasaw Nation’s official website: https://www.chickasaw.net/Services/Community-Services.aspx

It’s best to be proactive and contact both the OESC and the Chickasaw Nation as soon as possible to understand their specific requirements and the documentation you can provide. Good luck with your utility assistance application.