State Unemployment Systems Tested by Surge of Applicants

Americans are seeking unemployment benefits at unprecedented levels due to the coronavirus, but many are finding more frustration than relief.

State websites and phone lines across the country have been overwhelmed with applicants _ causing sites to crash, phone lines to ring busy and much-needed payments to be delayed.

While many states are doing their best to respond _ adding staff, updating technology and streamlining the process _ it’s tough to keep up with the pace of demand.

About 10 million people applied for unemployment benefits in the two weeks ended March 27.

States are urging applicants to stay patient and keep at it, their benefits will be fulfilled.