The application system for reemployment assistance (RA), sometimes called unemployment benefits, is currently overwhelmed. Most out-of-work Floridians are not able to complete their application by phone or online at this time. We lose out on needed benefits every day that we are not able to complete an application. 

We should not be penalized for the failings of the state-run unemployment website, especially after losing our jobs due to a public health emergency.

We ask you take all necessary steps to ensure that for those losing their jobs because of the COVID-19 public health emergency, RA benefits will be paid retroactive to the date of job loss regardless of the date an application is finalized.