Ohio to hurry $300 weekly unemployment payments included in new federal stimulus package

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - Many unemployment recipients in the state of Ohio could soon be seeing the $300 weekly supplemental payments included in the new federal relief stimulus.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, or ODJFS, announced on Monday that the agency has received the necessary guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor that would allow payments to be distributed.

“We are committed to making the updates as quickly as we can so that we can bring much-needed relief to eligible claimants,” said ODJFS Director Kimberly Henderson. “System programming will be needed for this effort, and we appreciate everyone’s patience as that occurs.”

While the ODJFS said payments will be sent out soon, the agency did not provide a specific date regarding when the new benefits will be distributed.

As part of the federal stimulus legislation signed on December 27, pandemic unemployment benefits and programs have been extended through March 13.

“Ohio stands ready to assist those in need as soon as possible, within the bounds of the new law,” Henderson added. “Those eligible will receive all benefits to which they are entitled.”

Individuals who received payments included in the original CARES Act until they expired on Dec. 26, 2020 will receive benefits retroactive to the date the new legislation was signed, beginning the week of Dec. 27, 2020.

Additionally, the ODJFS said those who receive Pandemic Unemployment Assistance will soon be able to file for the weekly benefits again.

Since the start of the pandemic, more than 1.7 million Ohioans have received unemployment benefits.

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