COVID-19 UNEMPLOYMENT LAW CHANGES
The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) summarized changes to date to the unemployment insurance law due to COVID-19. The changes include the following:
• Waived the one-week waiting period
• Suspended the requirement to search for three jobs weekly
This past Monday, DLIR announced the establishment of a new webform for filing unemployment claims that is available 24/7. Individuals can file claims by using a new online webform and choosing to either file a new claim or continue an existing claim.
“Simplifying the web-based application process and establishing an internal phone bank will allow individuals to file claims on a timelier basis,” said DLIR Director Scott Murakami. “I sincerely apologize for the difficulties our community has encountered with our online site for filing claims, but please do not come into our offices as we need everyone’s help to ensure the safety of the community and our staff.”
The safest, and most efficient way to apply for unemployment benefits is through the new webform at https://huiclaims.hawaii.gov/#/. The State will backdate claims and deposit unemployment benefits for eligible individuals that were unable to file their claims due to the overload on the online filing system. Individuals filing claims will need an account for depositing funds into (savings or checking), financial institution routing number, and an account number. To be best prepared, please have the contact information and dates of employment for all of your employers over the past 18 months.
The department is still taking appointments and resetting passwords during normal business hours of 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.:
Password reset: (808) 762-5751
Phone appointments: (808) 762-5752
The local unemployment offices remain closed to walk-in and in-person services to help arrest the spread of COVID-19.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Program Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. TDD/TTY Dial 711 then ask for (808) 586-8866