As businesses close or alter services due to the Coronavirus, Pennsylvania workers may be eligible for relief via unemployment benefits and workers’ compensation.

Per Pennsylvania Secretary of Labor and Industry Jerry Oleksiak’s Monday announcement:

“As Pennsylvania and the nation implement mitigation efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, it is important to relieve some of the financial pressures our workers are facing so they can focus on remaining healthy and safe,” said Secretary Oleksiak. “The best option is for employers to offer their employees paid time off. If leave is not available and your job has been impacted by this new virus, you may be eligible for benefits either through unemployment or workers’ compensation. If you work in a job or industry that likely will be affected, prepare now by knowing what you need and how to file so your application can be processed quickly.”

If your employer reduces your hours or closes or you’ve been told to self-isolate or quarantine, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits.  You can apply for unemployment online and find all the requirements here. You can also LIVECHAT with an operator as well, but expect long hold times.

For those exposed to the virus, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. More info for that can be found here.