Unemployment on Steroids: How the CARES Act Changes the Game
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act significantly expands unemployment benefits in response to the pandemic. It provides an extra $600 per week to unemployment recipients, extends benefits up to 39 weeks, and for the first time, makes gig workers and freelancers eligible. Existing state benefits range from $213-$546 per week, with an average of $385. The act also includes $1,200 direct payments to most adults
