SharedWork Ohio program can help employers avoid layoffs

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Director Matt Damschroder reminds employers considering layoffs that the SharedWork Ohio program can help them retain trained staff during times of reduced business activity.

“With SharedWork Ohio plans, employers can reduce the affected employees’ hours by 10 to 60 percent, and the affected workers can receive unemployment benefits proportional to that reduction,” Damschroder said. “SharedWork is an excellent option for both employers and workers.”

To participate in the program, employers must meet the following criteria:

• Have at least two affected employees that do not work on a seasonal, temporary or intermittent basis.

• Are current on all Ohio unemployment insurance reporting, contributions, reimbursements, interest and penalties due.

• Agree to the program requirements.

After ODJFS approves an employer’s plan, the affected employees may apply for SharedWork Ohio benefits. Both full-time and part-time employees may be eligible, but all employees in an affected unit must have their hours reduced by the same reduction percentage. Reduction percentages must be at least 10 percent but no more than 60 percent of the normal weekly hours of work.

For more information, visit jfs.ohio.gov/job-services-and-unemployment/unemployment/for-employers/employer-resources/02-sharedwork-ohio. Interested employers also can email SharedWork_Ohio@jfs.ohio.gov, send a message through the “Contact Us” form at odjfs.force.com/OUIForm/s/employerinquiryform, or call 1-866-733-0025 and select option 3.