Confused: My CONNECT account shows active pandemic benefits but prompting me to apply for RA benefits?

The system is buggy as hell. DEO switched everything over from the old pandemic programs (which don't exist anymore btw) to regular Reemployment Assistance. Your account is probably showing outdated info!!! You NEED to apply for RA benefits because the pandemic programs ended YEARS ago. Don't wait or you'll miss out on benefits you could be getting.

This is a common issue in CONNECT right now. The pandemic programs (PUA, PEUC, etc.) ended back in 2021, but sometimes the system still displays this outdated information. What you're seeing is essentially a system glitch. When it prompts you to apply for regular Reemployment Assistance, that's actually the correct path forward. The funds you're seeing in your account from the pandemic program aren't actually available to claim anymore - it's just displaying old data. You should go ahead and apply for regular RA benefits if you're currently unemployed and eligible.

i had this same thing happen last month...the system is messed up. you have to apply for regular benefits. the pandemic stuff ended forever ago but they never updated the system right

This is a technical issue in the CONNECT system that happens when accounts transition between different benefit types. Here's what's happening: 1. The pandemic programs (PUA, PEUC, FPUC) ended in September 2021. 2. Your account is displaying outdated information in what we call a "ghost profile." 3. The system is correctly prompting you to apply for regular Reemployment Assistance, which is the only active program available now. 4. The money you see in your account from the pandemic program is not actually available to claim. When you apply for RA benefits, you'll go through the regular application process. Make sure you have your employment history for the past 18 months, including employer names, addresses, phone numbers, employment dates, and reason for separation. You'll also need to complete the work search requirements (5 job contacts per week) for any weeks you claim going forward.

Go straight to applying for RA. Trying to claim weeks on a program that's no longer active could potentially cause more confusion in the system. When you complete your new application, the system should update properly. Just be prepared that you may need to verify your identity through ID.me again, and you'll need to meet the regular RA eligibility requirements. Also, don't forget that Florida now requires 5 work search activities per week that you'll need to report when claiming weeks.

My neighbor had this exact problem last month! The CONNECT system is so confusing sometimes. She said she spent forever trying to figure it out. I think she ended up having to start a whole new claim.

Just to follow up - after you submit your new RA application, expect it to take 2-3 weeks for a determination. If your claim is approved, you'll be able to claim weeks as normal. You might see a message about adjudication if there are any issues with your claim that need manual review. If that happens, keep claiming your weeks while the adjudication process is ongoing. Once resolved, you'll receive any back pay for eligible weeks you've claimed.