The Maryland Department of Labor implemented the new system to avoid logjams.

As the coronavirus crisis rages on, more and more people are losing their jobs. New numbers from the Maryland Department of Labor show 84,230 people filed for unemployment for the week ending on March 28, 2020. These unprecedented numbers have obviously put a strain on the state’s unemployment insurance system. Beginning on April 1, the department has created a new system for residents to apply that includes assigned filing days and extended hours.

If you have lost your job, your first step is to visit the Maryland Department of Labor website or call 410-949-0022. To streamline the system so representatives don’t get overwhelmed, officials ask that you call on the day of the week that corresponds to the first letter of your last name:

• If your last name starts with A–F,  you can file your claim on Monday.
• If your last name starts with G– N, you can file your claim on Tuesday.
• If your last name starts with O–Z, you can file your claim on Wednesday.
• If you miss your “day,” you can also call or file your claim online on Thursday and Friday. Online claims can also be filed on the weekend.

The Maryland Department of Labor is also extending its hours of operation from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Courtesy Maryland Department of Labor

For the first time ever, unemployment compensation will be available for gig and freelance workers. Unfortunately, the system is not set up to accommodate these types of claims. Officials are asking these workers NOT to apply until the system is ready to accept these claims. If you do, your application will get denied. Please watch the Department of Labor website for updates on these claims. Workers in this category will get benefits dating back to the day they were unemployed.

Have you filed for unemployment? Do you think this new process will help? Tell us in the comments!