Over 1 Million North Carolinians Have Filed For Unemployment

North Carolinians have now filed over 1 million unemployment claims. The latest figures come as the state continues to navigate the coronavirus pandemic.

Over 20 percent of the state's workforce has now applied for unemployment insurance since March 15.

The highest days for unemployment claims were in late March and then again in late April, with over 30,000 seeking benefits each day.

Of those who have filed, The Winston-Salem Journal reports that just over 44 percent have received either state and/or federal payments.

The new figures come as Governor Roy Cooper signed two COVID-19 relief bills. The bipartisan measures were approved unanimously by the House and Senate. 

Not included was a Senate provision to raise the maximum weekly state unemployment benefit from $350 to $400 once federal benefits are exhausted.

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.