Can I receive unemployment benefits if I am self-employed?

Unemployment benefits are typically designed for individuals who are employees and have lost their jobs involuntarily. However, during certain circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, specific programs were introduced to assist self-employed individuals and gig workers, such as the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. In those cases, self-employed individuals could apply for benefits even if they did not traditionally qualify under regular unemployment insurance criteria. For self-employed individuals in Maryland to qualify for unemployment benefits, they generally need to demonstrate a significant loss of income due to a qualifying event that led to their inability to work. It is essential to keep in mind that the regulations and eligibility criteria may change over time, especially in response to economic fluctuations or changes in law. To find the most current information and guidelines regarding unemployment benefits for self-employed individuals, it is advisable to visit the official website of the Unemployment Office Maryland. There, you can find resources, application procedures, and specific eligibility criteria to guide you. It is recommended to stay updated, as policies may shift based on the state's needs.