By Cathy Iino, First Selectman, Killingworth
Hello, Killingworth–
The COVID-19 numbers for Killingworth are holding steady. For over a week we have had 13 confirmed cases (recent bobbles in the number were caused by data entry issues). Killingworth is a pretty good place to exercise social distancing, and we are doing a good job of keeping apart together.
Over 4,000 residents have now enrolled in How We Feel–more than three quarters of the adults in our town! That’s a remarkable level of participation in this data collection effort. Of those enrolled, 4,000 reported feeling well today, and 89 reported feeling “not well.” We wish them a speedy recovery.
Unemployment benefits for self-employed residents. The red button is finally here, but there are still problems. The red button is the long-awaited link on the CT Department of Labor website that allows people who do not normally qualify for unemployment benefits to file on line for compensation under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. Eligible individuals include
- Self-employed
- 1099 and “gig” workers
- Workers in jobs not covered by regular unemployment benefits (for example, some employees of religious institutions)
- Peace Corps volunteers
- Other individuals who are attached to the labor force but are not covered by regular unemployment benefits
The red button is actually the second step in the process. Applicants must first file a regular state claim application and receive a denial by mail. They are then supposed to be able to file on line. However, according to DOL, if your information, such as the use of a middle initial, doesn’t match EXACTLY on state and federal filings, your application may be kicked back. DOL is alerted to the error and will fix problems as they occur, but payments are delayed.
Within the application process, there is a way to email questions to DOL. But if you run into problems, please also call the office of State Senator Christine Cohen, 860-240-0455, and leave a message. Senator Cohen is working to address issues at DOL and wants to know about them. She or her staff will return your call.
DOL does recommend that you choose direct deposit as the means of receiving your payments. If you request payment by a debit card, the payments can take from 10 days to 3 weeks longer to reach you.
Assistance for farmers. The Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program portal reopened this week with funding from the Paycheck Protection Program and Healthcare Enhancement Act. The act provides funding for agricultural businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Agricultural businesses include businesses engaged in the production of food and fiber and all other farming and agricultural related industries as defined by section 18(b) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 647(b). Eligible agricultural businesses must have 500 or fewer employees.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ambulance services have noticed an increase in calls for acute cases. For some emergencies, including heart attacks, strokes, and some traumatic injuries, time is of the essence. No one should call 911 casually, but don’t wait longer than you should if you have severe pain, chest pain, or signs of stroke. Our first responders are taking precautions to make sure that patients can be transported safely during this pandemic.
Access Health Connecticut reminds you that you can apply for health insurance any time if you lose your job or undergo another qualifying life event, such as aging off your parents’ plan, getting married, or having or adopting a child. You must apply within 60 days of the event.
Stay home, stay safe.
Cathy