On August 15, 2020, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved Missouri’s application to participate in the Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) program, making Missouri one of the first states in the nation to receive approval under the program.
This comes after President Trump issued an Executive Order authorizing additional payments for eligible individuals receiving unemployment benefits on August 8, 2020. Trump authorized FEMA to “expend $44 billion from the Disaster Relief Fund for lost wage payments,” according to FEMA’s website.
Missourians whose unemployment is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and are eligible for at least $100 per week of unemployment benefits, may qualify for the additional weekly benefits retroactive to the week ending August 1, 2020.
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While awaiting additional guidance from FEMA and the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), Missouri will continue as expeditiously as possible to implement the LWA program for eligible unemployed Missourians to be able to receive the additional benefits as soon as possible.
To stay updated on the latest information regarding the Lost Wages Assistance Program, including any additional eligibility requirements and timelines for payment, visit the Department of Labor here.