Washington said in a release that about $6.03 million in COVID-19-related benefits were paid between March 27 and Friday to 22,646 people filing claims, representing 25,379 weeks claimed. This accounts for about 67% of all unemployment compensation benefits paid in the past seven days.

“We have seen an overwhelming number of employees filing claims for unemployment compensation benefits,” Washington said. “We understand and realize that many people are having trouble applying — we are working on correcting the situation constantly, and more and more people are getting through with each day that passes.”

Claimants who have not yet received payment are still having their claims processed, according to the ADOL, and there is no written notification provided for approval.

Claimants will receive funds via a direct deposit, an existing debit card from a previous unemployment compensation claim, or via a new debit card. Payment may take up to 21 days, but should generally be received sooner.

If a debit card is selected as the method of payment, it will have to be mailed, which could also affect the time it takes to receive payment, the ADOL said. If claimants are not approved, they will receive written notification.

Claims can be filed online at www.labor.alabama.gov or by calling 1-866-234-5382.