Need to file for unemployment or small business help? Here’s how

RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper requested a disaster declaration to help small businesses across the state being affected by COVID-19.

The U.S. Small Business Administration granted Cooper’s request to support small businesses suffering economically.

ALSO READ: Gov. Cooper’s order brings unemployment relief, closes NC restaurants, bars to dine-in

“Many small businesses are desperate right now and this SBA approval will help,” said Cooper. “Even more is needed and we will continue to push for additional assistance while we work to protect the health of North Carolinians.”

The declaration allows businesses that are affected to apply for low-interest SBA disaster loans.

Businesses and people can apply online here and can call SBA’s Customer Service Center for more information at 1-800-659-2955 or 1-800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing.

Jobless claims are surging across the U.S. after government officials ordered millions of workers, students and shoppers to stay at home as a precaution against spreading the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease.

In North Carolina, which offers less in jobless benefits than most states, displaced workers won’t have to be actively looking for a new job, as is required for traditional benefits, and employers who must lay off workers won’t be financially responsible for the benefits their workers receive.

If you live in North Carolina and need to apply for unemployment, CLICK HERE.