Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Storm-Affected Tennesseans

The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development has announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance is now available for individuals impacted by severe winter storms that began January 22.

The assistance applies to residents in 29 Tennessee counties included in a federal disaster declaration: Benton, Carroll, Cheatham, Chester, Clay, Davidson, Decatur, Dickson, Dyer, Fayette, Hardeman, Hardin, Henderson, Hickman, Lewis, Macon, Madison, Maury, McNairy, Montgomery, Perry, Robertson, Rutherford, Shelby, Sumner, Trousdale, Wayne, Williamson, and Wilson counties.

Eligible individuals may begin applying Thursday, April 23, with a deadline to apply set for June 9, 2026.

Officials say the disaster assistance period runs from January 25 through August 8, 2026.

To qualify, individuals must have been working or self-employed in the affected areas and be unable to work due to storm-related damage, injury, or loss of employment. Applicants must also have exhausted regular unemployment benefits or not qualify for them.

Applications can be submitted online at Jobs4TN.gov or by calling 1-877-813-0950 weekdays between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM.

Officials say required documentation must be submitted within 21 days of filing an application.

Local American Job Centers are also available to assist with applications, job searches, and career resources.