ATLANTA, Ga. — Unemployment claims have nearly doubled in the past week in response to the coronavirus pandemic. According to the Henry Herald, Governor Brian Kemp has responded to the claims spike by allowing the authorization of emergency unemployment benefits.

Commissioner of Labor Mark Butler extended the length of time that benefits can be collected from 14 weeks to 26 weeks. Also, the first $300 of wages earned in a week will not count against eligible unemployment benefits. Partial claims should be filed for both full-time and part-time employees to expedite the issuance of payment.

These changes not only benefit those filing for unemployment but the businesses as well; The current tax rate for employers and non-profits will not be affected.

Georgia is not alone in this unemployment spike. The country’s claims have risen to 3.3 million within the last week.

More information detailing how to file can be found on DOL.Georgia.gov/