Resources for Impacted Workers
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Maryland Department of Labor’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) Program
- Unemployment Insurance is available to eligible employees who worked in Maryland and have been laid off or are working reduced hours due to the Key Bridge collapse.
- Depending on eligibility, this will provide up to $430 in weekly benefits until work resumes. Eligibility depends on your employee classification. Self-employed workers and independent contractors are not eligible for traditional UI benefits but may be eligible for the Maryland Department of Labor’s Port of Baltimore Emergency Worker Support Program (details below).
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To file for unemployment, workers can file electronically or call a dedicated hotline specifically for workers affected by the collapse and closure Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m at 667-930-5989.
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Maryland Department of Labor’s Port of Baltimore Emergency Worker Support Program
- $15 million is authorized to provide temporary payments to Port workers. Individuals eligible include employees of Port businesses who have lost pay and work hours and independent contractors/solo owner-operators who regularly work at the Port and have experienced a reduction of income since the Key Bridge collapse.
- This will provide temporary cash assistance of $430 per week to supplement income, subject to program funds availability. Port workers who qualify for unemployment insurance may also receive Worker Support Program payments. Information about the Worker Support Program and application details can be found here.
- Workers will need to provide several forms of identification and proof to verify that they regularly worked at the Port and are eligible for the program.
- Cash Campaign’s Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Relief Fund
- The Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund was created by the Baltimore Community Foundation with donations from local businesses, foundations and individuals.
- Depending on eligibility, Port workers may receive a one-time payment of $1,000. Workers must prove their eligibility through photo ID and proof of employment at one of the public or private terminals at the Port.
- To apply for the funding, workers can file electronically or apply in person at one of four locations in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County. Locations and additional program information may be found here.
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Financial Relief Programs through Maryland Credit Unions
- Over 40 credit unions that are part of the Maryland-DC Credit Union Association have joined the economic and financial response to credit union customers who are impacted by the Key Bridge collapse. These relief programs include:
- Deferments on consumer loan payments
- Deferments on mortgage payments
- Waivers on overdraft and/or late payment fees
- If you are currently experiencing issues paying your mortgage, contact your servicer to inquire about forbearance options. To be connected to housing counseling and legal services, call 1-877-462-7555 or see Participating Housing Counseling and Legal Services Agencies to find an agency that can work with you to access relief
- Over 40 credit unions that are part of the Maryland-DC Credit Union Association have joined the economic and financial response to credit union customers who are impacted by the Key Bridge collapse. These relief programs include:
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BayVanguard Bank Customer Assistance
- Existing customers of BayVanguard bank that are directly impacted by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse may be eligible for direct deposit assistance, payment deferments, and other assistance programs. More information.