American Rescue Plan: COVID-19 Federal Relief Package, 2021
Thousands of UNITE HERE members--including members of Local 25 — worked around the country to elect President Biden. After that we went to Georgia to take back control of the Senate. Thanks to our Union’s political work on these races, the Federal Government passed a third relief package intended to stimulate the economy and provide financial relief to workers during the pandemic.
There are numerous components of the legislation that will benefit hospitality workers. These include child tax credits, rental assistance, and government-funded COBRA healthcare. While we are still learning more about these programs and how you can take advantage of them, you can see a full list of them and learn more here. For details on Unemployment benefits and stimulus checks, see below.
UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS: The legislation will again provide additional unemployment benefits through the Federal Government in addition to the state benefits. It extends the additional $300 weekly unemployment benefits payment and further extends the length of time you can receive benefits, from 50 to 79 weeks.
STIMULUS CHECKS: This is a direct, $1,400 payment from the federal government to many Americans, regardless of job status.
Below, we have provided answers to some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for these two benefits. If you have further questions, you can reach out to the Union office at 202-737-2225.
Unemployment Benefits
+ Will I receive it?
Anyone already eligible for unemployment benefits will receive this benefit as well as part-time workers, self-employed workers and independent contractors.
+ When will I get it?
It is unclear right now how long it will take to process the new law and get the funds to eligible workers. We may see delays in implementation because states often have a lag in between the law getting passed and the changes showing up in your portal. We will update this page when we have further information.
+ Do I have to apply to get this?
Yes, in the same way that you apply for state Unemployment Insurance. You should continue to file your weekly claim, even if you believe your benefits have expired, or if they expired prior to the extension.
+ How long will this benefit last?
The benefit will last until September 6th.
+ What if I am receiving other income?
You should disclose all income from your employer, including disaster pay or weekly pay, when you file your state unemployment but it will not decrease the $300/week benefit. You do not have to declare income from the stimulus check because it is a tax credit, not income.
+ How is the benefit taxed?
If you make less than $150,000 a year, the first $10,200 in unemployment benefits received in 2020 will be exempt from taxation.
+ What if I have other questions?
Currently there is no federal service help line but you can reach out to your state unemployment insurance office, understanding that there may be increased wait times. You can also look at this article for more details on extended UI benefits.
Stimulus Checks
+ Will I receive it?
Anyone with a Social Security Number is eligible to receive a stimulus check. Additionally, US citizens and permanent residents who filed a joint tax return with an undocumented spouse will receive checks as well as checks for their dependent children.
+ How much will I receive?
It depends on your income. Adults who made under $75,000 (or $150,000 combined) will receive $1,400 per adult ($2,800 per couple) AND $1,400 per dependent child.
+ Do I have to apply to get this?
No
+ How will this be calculated?
This amount will be calculated based on your most recent (2019 or 2020) tax returns. If you have not filed tax returns for either year, you should file as soon as possible. If you receive Social Security and do not file tax returns you will still receive this benefit.
+ How will I receive this?
You will receive it by direct deposit or check by mail.
+ When will I get it?
If you have not received your payment, you can check on its status here.
+ What if I am receiving other income?
People receiving social security, disability, unemployment, and other state benefits would still receive this payment.
+ What if I have other questions?
You can look at this article for more details on this legislation.