Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is a program which provides temporary income to eligible individuals who become unemployed as a result of a major disaster. It is funded by the federal government, not by state unemployment taxes paid by employers. 

DUA was available for several Iowa counties impacted by severe storms in 2024, but the application window for that assistance has ended. Any future updates on DUA will be announced by IWD in the event of major disasters.  

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Major Disaster

A “major disaster” is a hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, earthquake, drought, ice conditions, fire or other catastrophe. The President declares a major disaster and makes funds available. The Disaster Assistance Period is then activated.

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How to Apply and Receive DUA

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