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Frequently Asked Questions COVID-19

March 23, 2020

What we have all experienced over the last few weeks has been extraordinary to say the least. We have seen many changes both globally and locally. The disruption of our daily routines has led to many questions. We want to assure you that we are doing everything that we can to ensure that our staff members and the individuals we serve are safe during this time. As our President and CEO outlined last week, some of our programs have had to temporarily reduce services. We are working with each staff member to identify potential job reassignments and to assist with furlough benefits.

Am I eligible for unemployment benefits?

Governor Sununu announced an emergency order yesterday that expands access to the state of NH unemployment benefits. The states of Maine and Vermont are currently working on expanding benefits as well.

What is the difference between a layoff and a furlough?

A furlough is a set period of time in which our staff do not report to work and do not earn a wage. The staff member retains their job during the furlough and retains their benefits. Once the furlough ends the staff member returns to work. The main difference between a furlough and a layoff is that the furlough allows staff members to return to their jobs where layoffs tend to be more permanent in nature.

 

I do not have any childcare due to the schools being closed, can I use my PTO?

You should work with your supervisor to determine if working remotely or reduced hours are possible. If remote work or reduced hours are not possible effective March 23, 2020, staff who are unable to return to work due to the closure of schools will be placed on a furlough. New Hampshire Staff placed on a full or partial furlough due to childcare may apply for unemployment benefits. Maine and Vermont staff will not be eligible for unemployment benefits due to the lack of childcare. The furlough will be in place until April 10, 2020 at which point we will reevaluate the situation. Staff will not be able to utilize any paid time off benefits during this period. 

 

My family member is at high risk what do I do?

I am fearful and I don’t want to go to work, what are my options?

You should work with your supervisor to determine if working remotely is possible. If remote work is not possible you would be taking time off without pay or resigning from your position. Under exceptional circumstances you may be eligible for a personal leave. Approval of a personal leave without pay is dependent on the circumstances of each case and consideration will be given to the needs of the Agency. Personal leave allows you to utilize your paid time off and is limited to fourteen days.

I need to medically care for a family member, or I am medially compromised what do I do?

You should work with your supervisor to determine if working remotely is possible, or you can apply for family medical leave, or intermittent leave, or a medical leave. These types of leave require a physician certification. This leave, once approved, allows you to use your paid time off and XIB benefits.

I am symptomatic and have been advised by an official to self-isolate or quarantine, what do I do?

You have several options. You can talk with your supervisor to see if remote work is possible. If remote work is not possible Easterseals can place you on a furlough which will enable you to apply for unemployment benefits. You could also apply for an FMLA or medical leave which requires physician certification and allows you to access your paid time off an extended illness bank.

 

How do I apply for unemployment benefits?

In New Hampshire: https://nhuis.nh.gov/claimant/

In Vermont: https://labor.vermont.gov/unemployment-insurance/ui-claimants

In Maine: https://reemployme.maine.gov/accessme/faces/login/login.xhtml

 

Note: the state of NH has established certain days that you can apply for unemployment based on the letters of your last name. This is to reduce volume so that the site can stay up and running. If you are being furloughed by Easterseals, it is due to the Coronavirus and is considered a temporary employer shutdown through April 10, 2020.

I have questions about applying for medical leave due to COVID-19 who do I call?

Occupational Health line at (603) 621-3563   

Shauna Tyler, Medical Assistant at (603) 716-6086

Liz McIntyre Occupational Health Nurse at (603) 930-6355

I still have questions who can I talk to:

We know this time is difficult for many of our staff members so we have established the ability for you to call the employee help line at  (603) 621-3439 seven days a week from 8 AM to 9 PM. You can also send an email to [email protected].

Seeking additional resources?

In New Hampshire, Vermont or Maine dial 2-1-1 . 

 

Coastline EAP can reached at either of the following numbers:

Please continue to practice social distancing only visiting public places if necessary. Also remember to practice good hygiene, and washing your hands for at least 30 seconds. Thank you to all of our staff. We are grateful to you for working diligently to provide our clients, families and communities with essential and mission critical services.