<div class="tldr">
<h2>TL;DR</h2>
<ul>
<li>File for unemployment immediately if you lose your job due to COVID-19; benefits now include freelancers and part-time workers.</li>
<li>Explore alternative income sources such as freelancing, online selling, or temporary work with companies like FedEx.</li>
<li>Consider taking online courses and obtaining certifications to improve skills and future job prospects.</li>
<li>Reflect on your career preferences to make positive moves when the job market stabilises.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p>The world is fighting and trying to overcome this pandemic, but one of the major hits due to coronavirus is taken by employees who have been let go from their jobs. Many organizations are reducing the staff for cost-cutting in this economic downturn. Due to this situation, a few small businesses are forced to close. So if you are jobless due to Corona, this is the right time to follow your passion, and here is how you can do it:</p>
<p>File for Unemployment Immediately If you have lost your job because of coronavirus you must immediately file for an unemployment claim. Recently, new guidelines have been put out by the department of labor for people under unemployment insurance.</p>
<p>Now, different states are providing benefits depending upon the situation of an employee as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>An employer temporarily closed due to <a href="https://www.ismartrecruit.com/blog-covid-19-effects-on-corporate-world">COVID-19</a></li>
<li>An employee is quarantined but intends to return to work</li>
<li>An employee has left work temporarily due to risk of infection or to care for a family member</li>
</ul>
<p>Also, under the coronavirus and relief and economic security act, part-time employees, freelance workers, independent contractors, and self-employed people are now eligible for many insurance benefits. The benefits of unemployment may vary depending on different states but you can always file a claim to get the most of these benefits.</p>
<p>To file the claim you must be required to submit the following information:</p>
<ul>
<li>Social Security number</li>
<li>Home address and mailing address (if different)</li>
<li>Telephone number</li>
<li>Email address</li>
<li>Your bank name, address, account number, and routing number for direct deposit</li>
<li>Most recent employer's name, address, and phone number</li>
<li>First and last day worked with this <a href="https://www.ismartrecruit.com/blog-5-reasons-employer-should-stay-connected-with-the-former-employees">employer</a></li>
<li>Reason for leaving</li>
<li>Severance package or pension information (if you have either or both)</li>
</ul>
<p>Once you have filed the claim, you usually get not deposited within two or three weeks but in case of a high volume of claims due to the current situation, it might take a longer period.</p>
<p><strong>[ Read: </strong><a href="https://www.ismartrecruit.com/blog-covid-19-effects-on-corporate-world"><strong>COVID-19 effects on Corporate World </strong></a><strong>]</strong></p>
<h2><strong>Look into an alternative source of income</strong></h2>
<p>Once you have filed the claim, it is now time to find an alternative source of income to keep you occupied as well as secured. Lack of a job can lead to mental strain which will ultimately lead to a healthy lifestyle. To avoid this you can explore multiple options while being at home with the power of the internet.</p>
<p>You can start getting paid by freelance writing, tutoring over Skype or any other video communication platform, by <a href="https://www.jotform.com/how-to-sell-online/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">selling products in online stores</a>, or becoming a virtual assistant. </p>
<p>These jobs can give you immediate solutions. If you are looking for a long-term plan you can open an online store, start a blog, or create your very own YouTube channel. You can also start a <a href="https://virtocommerce.com/blog/food-beverage-ecommerce" target="_blank" rel="noopener">food and beverage eCommerce</a> business, just be careful when managing inventory and logistics. These options can help you explore your interest even after the situation is under control and when you get back to a regular full-time job for an organization.</p>
<h2><strong>Companies hiring temporary workers right now</strong></h2>
<p>Many people are under the impression that companies are only letting go of their employees and recruitment for companies have altogether stopped. This may be true for few organizations but few companies like FedEx, Costco, Walgreens whole foods among others are currently looking for temporary workers as there is an increase in demand for the services and products. So, until you get a full-time job you can always start working as a temporary worker.</p>
<p><strong>[ Read: </strong><a href="https://www.ismartrecruit.com/blog-how-to-uplift-recruitment-industries-during-the-covid19-pandemic"><strong>How to Uplift Recruitment Industries During the COVID-19 Pandemic?</strong></a><strong> ]</strong></p>
<h2><strong>Take a class</strong></h2>
<p>Remember that one course or a skill that you have been trying to learn but never got a chance to do it because all your time was invested in your job? You can learn a musical instrument, a new language, programming language, and what not through one of the many online educational portals that provide free as well as paid virtual classes. If you're unsure about what to learn, consider looking into fields with promising prospects. For example, IT is booming and offers many opportunities. Pursuing <a class="c-link" href="https://www.exam-labs.com/blog/green-it-certifications-for-sustainable-technology-management-certifications-that-focus-on-energy-efficient-it-design-and-sustainable-technology-practices" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-stringify-link="https://www.exam-labs.com/blog/green-it-certifications-for-sustainable-technology-management-certifications-that-focus-on-energy-efficient-it-design-and-sustainable-technology-practices" data-sk="tooltip_parent">IT Certifications</a> could be a great way to enter this field. Numerous online portals can guide you through the certification process, helping you gain the expertise you need. You can also enhance your employability by enrolling in professional safety training programs like <a href="https://www.c2cfirstaidaquatics.com/brampton/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BLS Certification</a>, which offer certified first aid and CPR courses to boost your skill set.  </p>
<p>These portals also provide you certification once you have completed the course. This is the perfect time to explore your interest or maybe polish up and add skills for your work field. This way you may even get a better job in the future because of the knowledge gained from these courses. Also, these online platforms can turn out to be a great networking opportunity.</p>
<h2><strong>Consider Your Next Move</strong></h2>
<p>Once you have processed the situation, filed the claim, and found an alternative of your interest and temporary <a href="https://www.spacer.com.au/blog/31-passive-income-ideas-from-the-sharing-economy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">source of income</a>, now is the perfect time to think of the next move and find out what you like and dislike about your job. This introspection can help you to make a positive career move.</p>
<p>Millions of people are facing the problem of losing their jobs due to COVID-19 but if we all remain calm and help each other out with our resources, we all can fight and win this battle.</p>
<div class="faqs">
<h2>FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h3>How soon should I file for unemployment after losing my job due to COVID-19?</h3>
<p>You should file for unemployment immediately after losing your job because of the pandemic. Early filing helps you access benefits quicker and eases financial strain during this uncertain time.</p>
<h3>Can freelancers and independent contractors claim unemployment benefits?</h3>
<p>Yes, under recent relief acts, many freelancers, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals are now eligible for unemployment benefits. Check your local guidelines to confirm.</p>
<h3>What are reliable temporary jobs during the pandemic?</h3>
<p>Companies like FedEx, Costco, and Walgreens are hiring temporary workers due to increased demand. These roles can provide steady income while you search for full-time work.</p>
<h3>How can I use this time to improve my career prospects?</h3>
<p>Consider taking online classes and certifications, especially in fields like IT. Platforms offering these courses can provide valuable skills and networking opportunities to boost your career.</p>
</div>