TUCSON, Ariz. — As Arizona reopens thousands of people on unemployment could be getting called back to work, but they might be facing reduced hours.
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We found out many people on unemployment could still receive their 600 dollar weekly FPUC benefit depending on how much they earn at work.
Flor Martinez was working 16 hours a day before the pandemic cost her two jobs.
“I don’t want to leave with benefits I want to work,” said Martinez. “I used to have two jobs to support my kids and I never asked for a benefit, but we don’t have another option.”
She just found a new job, but it’s only part-time.
“Like 16 hours a week I think.”
Luckily for Martinez the Department of Economic Security says it might still be possible for her and many others to continue getting needed support.
The Department of Economic Security says many of those people may still qualify for unemployment insurance and the additional weekly 600 dollar Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation. The department deducts reported earnings from unemployment benefits and if there is at least one dollar leftover you should still get your 600 dollar FPUC payment.
“I have 4 children I have to support on my own and its hard,” said Martinez.
DES says claimants are expected to accept bona fide offers of suitable work. Martinez says she can’t wait to go back to work full-time so she won’t have to worry about unemployment insurance.
More information can be found in the emailed response below from DES.
