Furlough FAQ
Q: Where can I receive assistance with filing for unemployment?
A: The WVU Shared Services Center will be available on Sunday, May 24 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. and Monday, May 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They may be reached at (304) 293-6006 to assist with unemployment claims.
Q: How soon can I apply for unemployment?
A: You can apply for unemployment at any time on Sunday, May 24th. Please do not submit your application early as this can delay the process.
Q: Do I go to a different website to apply for the Cares Act? How often do I have to do this?
A: All individuals who are eligible to receive unemployment benefits will receive an additional $600 per week from the CARES act funds on top of the state benefit. There is nothing further you need to do besides file your unemployment claims weekly.
Q: Do we have to apply for jobs while on furlough to be eligible for unemployment benefits?
A: No, the state has waived the requirement to seek employment during the furlough period; however, the online application does still ask if you are seeking employment. We advise that you answer this honestly for your circumstances.
Q: Where can I find out how much I will receive in unemployment benefits?
A: If you want to estimate your unemployment, you can visit: https://uc.workforcewv.org/Consumer/Login.aspx?app=el&AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1. This is a great resource when creating a budget to track your income and expenses during the furlough period.
Q: Do I have to pay taxes on my unemployment benefits?
A: The weekly benefit paid by WorkForce West Virginia is a gross dollar amount (subject to state and federal personal income tax). You may elect to have federal income taxes withheld from your unemployment compensation from WorkForce West Virginia; however, state taxes are not withheld. You are advised to speak to your tax professional regarding the payment of state income tax.
Q: How do I find out what my take home will be after taxes on my unemployment benefits?
A: You can visit www.paycheckcity.com to estimate your weekly take home after taxes.
Q: What dates will I miss a paycheck during my furlough period?
A: If your scheduled return-to-work date is Sunday, June 28, you will miss the following pays during the temporary furlough period: June 19, July 3, July 17 - one week of pay missed. If your scheduled return-to-work date is Sunday, July 26, you will miss the following pays during the temporary furlough period: on June 19, July 3, July 17, July 31 (deduction holiday), August 14 - one week of pay missed.
Q: Will I receive a paycheck from WVU for the May 10th – May 23rd pay period once the furlough period begins?
A: Yes, WVU pays in arrears and you will be paid for the work you previously completed. You will receive a paycheck on June 5th for the work you completed between May 10th and May 23rd.
Q: If I have the means to pay my bills, should I continue to do so even if companies are delaying payments?
A: Yes, if you have the means to pay your bills, we recommend that you continue to make payments. This will help you avoid a larger balance in the future, and it will avoid interest accruing on the balance.
Q: Should I continue to make federal student loan payments?
A: Federal student loan borrowers are automatically being placed in an administrative forbearance, which allows you to temporarily stop making your monthly loan payment; however, with no interest being charged, this is a great opportunity for borrowers to significantly reduce their principal balance if they have the means to do so.
Q: How can I expect to save money during this time?
A: With social distancing measures still in place, individuals and families are spending less money on dining out, entertainment and vacations. Reviewing past expenses and creating a budget is a great way to track these expenses and savings during this time.
Q: Will I have access to my Portal account during my furlough to view my pay statements and employee information?
A: Access to portal will not be available during the temporary furlough period. We recommend that you review and download any information you may need before Sunday, May 24th.
Q: How can I avoid late fees and interest charges if I am unable to pay my bills?
A: Companies across the country have created COVID-19 landing pages outlining their efforts to reduce the impact on consumers. We recommend viewing company websites or reaching out directly to see what options are available to you if you are unable to may payments.
Q: How will WVU contact me during the furlough period if I don’t have access to my email?
A: You will need to complete the Employee Information Form located here: https://wvu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6LSF3PHvxGIrqNT
Q: Do I have to repay missed insurance premiums during my furlough period?
A: Yes, employees on temporary furlough will be responsible for repaying their missed benefits premiums back to WVU. Employee will have 2 options for repayment – Payment in full or payroll deduction. You're also welcome to contact Shared Services at 304-293-6006 for additional information on benefit deductions. Please review your Employee Resource guide for further information, or visit: https://talentandculture.wvu.edu/files/d/5452eae1-1310-4a69-8009-7b2cf0f90680/02employee-resource-guide.pdf
Q: Will I still receive my longevity check?
A: Longevity checks will not be affected by the furlough period.
For additional resources, please visit https://talentandculture.wvu.edu/coronavirus-covid-19-resources/temporary-furlough-faqs. You may also reach out to coronavirushr@mail.wvu.edu with specific questions.