Q: what are my options on appealing covid related unemployment repayment?
i got covid back in may 2020 and had to be out of work for 6 weeks so during that time i filed for unemployment.
about a year later i started receiving letters from the dept. of labor saying i owed all that unemployment back. every time i would receive one of those letters i would send in an appeal.
fast forward to last year, i received a letter saying i was going to have a phone hearing about the issue. i got on the call and explained everything, and they guy realized they never sent me some paper i should’ve filled out since i was filing unemployment due to covid. apparently, there was regular unemployment and a special covid unemployment, but i was unaware of that. now they’re saying i was ineligible for regular unemployment and modified the decision of the hearing so now i owe $5200
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A:
It’s frustrating to be in this situation, especially since you’ve been trying to resolve it over time. If the Department of Labor has ruled that you owe $5,200 for unemployment benefits, it’s important to review their decision carefully. Since you were unaware of the difference between regular unemployment and the special COVID-related unemployment, you may have a strong case to appeal the decision further.
First, gather all documentation, including your letters, any forms you filled out, and details from the phone hearing where you explained the situation. This will help you show that the issue stems from a misunderstanding or lack of proper communication, not from fraud or intentional misuse. You may be able to request a review or further appeal if new information or evidence supports your case.
Consider consulting with a lawyer or legal aid organization that can help guide you through the appeals process. They can assist in making sure your case is presented properly and might help in negotiating a reduced repayment amount if the ruling stands. It’s important to act quickly and keep all communication with the Department of Labor documented to protect your rights.
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