Can I get DEO benefits for 3-week gap as paid family caregiver through Medicaid?

Unfortunately FL unemployment doesn't typically cover 1099 workers unless your company has been paying into the unemployment insurance system for you (which most 1099 situations don't). The system is mainly for W-2 employees. During COVID they had PUA for 1099 workers but that's long gone now.

It's a bit complicated. Even though you're 1099, you might want to apply anyway because sometimes these caregiver positions through Medicaid are in a gray area. Some agencies misclassify workers. The key factors DEO looks at are: who controls your work schedule, who sets your pay rate, and who determines how the work is performed. If the company controls these factors (even with Medicaid funding), you might have an argument for employee classification. If you apply, be prepared to explain your work arrangement in detail during fact-finding. Worst case scenario is they deny your claim, but you might qualify for partial benefits during this temporary gap.

I would definitely apply. When you file, make sure to keep a record of your confirmation number and check your CONNECT inbox daily. If they need additional information about your work situation, you'll get a fact-finding questionnaire. Complete it right away with detailed explanations about how the company controls your work parameters, even though you receive a 1099. Also important - when you apply, list the company that pays you as your employer, NOT the state Medicaid program. The company is your actual employer even if funding comes from Medicaid. Make sure you have all your payment records for the past 18 months ready to upload. I've seen people in your situation get approved, especially for temporary gaps like this where you have a definite return-to-work date. The key is being very clear about the employer/employee relationship despite the 1099 status.

You should absolutely disclose your return-to-work date - it's actually helpful for your case as it shows you're only seeking temporary assistance during a specific gap, not indefinitely. When you claim your weeks, you'll need to report when you return to work anyway, so being upfront from the start is important. Just be prepared that even if approved, DEO processing can take 2-4 weeks, so you might not receive benefits until around the time you're already back to work. If approved, payments would be retroactive to your filing date (minus the one-week waiting period Florida requires).

I work in home health (w2 not 1099) but had clients cancel for 2 weeks last year and got temp benefits. Your situation sounds different tho with the 1099 thing. But def apply!!! What's the worst they can say? No?

Have you tried calling DEO to ask about your specific situation? Probably better than getting advice from randoms online lol. Good luck getting through though, their phone lines are ALWAYS busy.

i think home health aides and caregivers should be REGULAR EMPLOYEES not 1099 anyway!!! your probly misclassified which is illegal. my friend got backpay when her agency got in truble for this

One more tip - when you file, under "reason for separation" select "temporary layoff" or "reduction in hours" rather than "quit" or "fired." This accurately reflects your situation as a temporary work gap with a planned return date. Also, be prepared that if approved, you'll still need to complete five work search activities per week unless they specifically exempt you due to the temporary nature of your layoff with a return date. Document all applications, contacts with employers, etc. while you're waiting for July 1st. Best of luck and let us know how it goes!