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Hoosiers still having issues getting unemployment benefits

Posted at 8:26 PM, Jun 16, 2020
and last updated 2020-06-16 20:26:04-04

INDIANAPOLIS — Unemployment woes continue for many Hoosiers even as Indiana announces that some could receive benefits for a longer period.

For Nathan Taylor, the process of filing for unemployment is dragging along.

"I meant it has literally been 10 weeks and I have not heard anything back from anyone," Taylor said.

Taylor is a truck driver who was laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic. For him, the frustration is mounting, especially since he's buying a new home and starting a family soon.

"Me and my girlfriend we just moved into this place a few months ago and our baby is due in a few months," Taylor said.

Taylor said he tried countless times to get someone on the phone. He even showed the emails he's sent in hopes of finally making progress toward getting his unemployment going.

"For me it's give them a call two to three times a week and when you call them you are talking to a third party that gets in touch with DWD," Taylor said. "They called me back the next day to say they'll give me a call the following day. I am not kidding you."

Taylor said he's exhausted and frustrated but since his claims hasn't been denied yet he's still trying.

"All mine says is my claim status is open," Taylor said.

WRTV reached out to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development to find out what the hold up is. They wouldn't speak to any case specifically but explained that some claims require them to take a closer look which can take longer than 21 days.