What you need to know:

• If you have received a reduction in hours and payment due to COVID-19, you should apply for unemployment.
• When applying, you will need to "free form" your application. Please visit https://www.tn.gov/workforce/covid-19/faq/selfemployed.html for step by step instructions.
• Because the system is still being updated to include self-employed workers, you may receive a message stating that you do not qualify for unemployment from the state of TN. DON'T PANIC. This is simply a system generated message while it is being updated to reflect the CARES Act provision extending unemployment assistance to self-employed and contract workers. The TN Department of Labor and Workforce Development has assured us that they will go back in and re-enter your application information as soon as the system is updated. They will contact you if they need any additional information to complete your application.
• Musicians/gig workers: if your number of gigs have been reduced but you are still playing out, you should apply and certify weekly to disclose what they made that week (for the gigs you've played). In this case, the amount of unemployment received may fluctuate/adjust up or down based on what you worked the week before.
• You need to apply for unemployment right away so you can get into the system. Eligibility determination and certification may take several days, so it's important to apply as soon as possible.
• You will become eligible for back unemployment from the initial date of your application IF YOU'RE DETERMINED ELIGIBLE. That’s why it’s important to APPLY NOW to lock in the date applied for traditional unemployment (for accrual).
• Unemployment is geared on weekly cycle. Once approved, you MUST certify weekly even if you haven’t received any funds yet. Each certification equals a paycheck. No certification, no check.
• The maximum weekly benefit in Tennessee is $275 before federal taxes are deducted. The state can provide your weekly benefit payment through direct deposit or debit card. You can choose which method when you file your claim.
• If you are eligible for even $1 of traditional unemployment, you will qualify for the additional $600/week from the CARES ACT.
• One of the provisions of the CARES Act is that the additional $600/week lasts through July 31, 2020. This is why it’s important to file for unemployment through the state as soon as possible.
• It may take up to 21 days to receive your first check.
• Due to the overwhelming increase in unemployment claims, the website may be slow or you may get kicked off. To increase the likelihood of a successful filing, apply during off hours (7 pm - 7 am). There will be less people filing at this time.
• If you have questions or need assistance, call 844-224-5818. Phones are open 7 am-7 pm M-F, and weekends 8 am-4:30 pm.
• You can check on the status of your claim by logging in to your Jobs4TN.gov account.  On your dashboard, select “Claim Summary” under the Unemployment Services box. This page lets you know if any issues that may still be pending on your claim and show the certified weeks that have been paid to you.