No money, but state still taking applications for extended unemployment benefits

By Cy Ryan

Friday, Feb. 7, 2014 | 3:20 p.m.

CARSON CITY — The state Employment Security Division is continuing to accept applications for extended unemployment benefits, despite a deadlock in Congress over funding the extension.

Kelly Karsh, deputy administrator of the division, said today that extended claims — those beyond 26 weeks — can’t be paid, but the agency is retaining staff to process applications and make any back payments if an extension is authorized.

The Legislative Interim Finance Committee on Thursday authorized the division to transfer $2.6 million in its budget to keep the workers on the payroll.

Karsh said the division will accept claims for extended benefits through Feb. 15 and possibly longer.

“We’re watching the news closely” to see if Congress acts to extend benefits, he said.

An estimated 17,000 Nevadans would qualify for extended benefits.

Legislation to extend benefits for the long-term unemployed failed to move forward in the Senate on Thursday. But another attempt to pass a bill is expected.