Pandemic Unemployment Assistance for Self-employed

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance for Self-Employed, Independent Contractors, Gig Economy Workers,

The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) is a temporary federal program under The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that provides up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits, including those who have exhausted all rights to such benefits.

Individuals covered under PUA include the self-employed (e.g. independent contractors, gig economy workers, and workers for certain religious entities), those seeking part-time employment, individuals lacking sufficient work history, and those who otherwise do not qualify for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits.

If you are self-employed visit the New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub for additional information.

Filing a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claim Information Document

Frequently Asked Questions for the Self-employed