Are REALTORS eligible for unemployment?
The short answer - Yes...REALTORS are eligible for unemployment benefits.
The recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act passed by Congress and signed by President Trump provides that real estate professionals will be eligible to apply for unemployment insurance benefits, under the “Pandemic Unemployment Assistance” portion of the bill if they have been fully or partially unemployed due to an inability to work as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency. This includes self-employed individuals and independent contractors.
The longer answer -- it is currently being ironed out.
So what does that mean for Ohio's REALTORS? As you know, the ability for independent contractors to apply is new. Ohio REALTORS is working with the DeWine Administration to determine the mechanics of unemployment insurance for our members. We hope to have answers soon. Check back here for the most up-to-date information.
UPDATE (4.1.2020) While we’re still awaiting final guidance from Ohio’s Department of Job and Family Services on how independent contractors will file unemployment claims, ​keep in mind that payments will be retroactive​, starting on the date you stop working rather than the date on which you file. Remember to maintain proper records to ensure full payments are received.
