Disaster unemployment assistance available in 14 Kentucky counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear says the state is now accepting applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance from individuals in 14 counties who are out of work due to severe weather events that occurred Feb. 14.

These storms included straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

On Feb. 25, President Donald Trump approved Beshear’s request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration, which includes public assistance for local governments and individual assistance for Kentuckians in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry and Pike counties. On March 2, an amendment to that declaration was issued adding Estill, Johnson and Simpson counties to those eligible for individual assistance, including DUA.

Those who are unemployed and self-employed who were living or working in the affected areas and became unemployed or had work interrupted due to the severe storms and flooding can apply for DUA benefits through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance.

The deadline to apply for DUA is April 25, 2025, according to officials.

To qualify, applicants must provide documents, including a copy of their most recent federal or state income tax forms or check stubs, a bill showing their physical address at the time of the disaster and a photo ID. All required documentation must be submitted within 21 days from the date the individual’s DUA application is filed.

DUA is available for 28 weeks of unemployment beginning Feb. 16, 2025, until Aug. 30, 2025, officials say, as long as the individual’s unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-564-2900 to file their initial claim.