We do not have any additional information specific to when DETR will be accepting claims, or how they will be processed under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, specifically under the “Continued Assistance for Unemployed Workers Act of 2020.”  According to an interview in the Nevada Independent dated December 22, 2020 with Barbara Buckley of the Governor’s Strike Force, there will likely be a gap in coverage.   

The new legislation does provided some key benefits.  First, it provides for an extension of benefits from 39 weeks to 50 weeks.  Second, it provides for the state agency (here, DETR) to waive overpayments if it determines that: (A) the payment of such pandemic unemployment assistance was without fault on the part of any such individual; and (B) such repayment would be contrary to equity and good conscience.  What this means is that DETR can waive repayment for claimants who have (A) made innocent as opposed to willful misrepresentations when filing a claim for benefits, and (B) it should not require repayment due to an underlying reason such as DETR’s own errors.   

Do not pay back overpayments unless you were paid twice or made a willful misrepresentation in your claim  Appeal the overpayment decision.  Again, acting as your own best advocate, keeping track of your portal, and staying engaged with DETR through telephone calls and pending appeals is crucial.  If your first appeal is denied, appeal to the Board of Review.  If that appeal is denied you can appeal directly to the district court in the county in which you reside.