The American Rescue Plan extends the enhanced unemployment benefits that were created as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The bill extends the weekly $300 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation benefit through September 6, 2021. It also increases the maximum number of weeks an individual can receive unemployment assistance benefits through Emergency Unemployment Compensation to 53 weeks.

The ARP also extends the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, which provides unemployment benefits to individuals who do not typically qualify for state unemployment benefits, including self-employed individuals, gig workers, part-time workers, and individuals with limited work history. These individuals are eligible for up to 79 weeks of benefits through September 6, 2021.

Massachusetts residents can click here to learn about applying for unemployment assistance, and click here to apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.