In just one week, Ohio has seen a massive surge in unemployment claims due to the closure of many businesses because of the coronavirus.

In the first four days of this week, 111,055 claims were made, compared to 3,895 made Sunday–Wednesday of last week.

Because of the high number, the Department of Job and Family Services is urging Ohioans to file claims online at unemployment.ohio.gov. If someone has become unemployed due to the coronavirus, they can enter 2000180 on the application. If they have already filed a claim without the number, they do not need to add it.

Locally, the Ohio Means Jobs office in Ironton is limiting access to the building, as are most government agencies. It is not affiliated with the unemployment compensation area, currently they are operating on a limited basis and, for the time being, have some computer access for those needing to file claims but don’t have access to a computer.

The department has extended the hours at its call centers for those without internet access or with specific questions. The number is 1-877-644-6562 (OHIO-JOB) and while it used to be available only during the work week, it is now available 7 a.m.–7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on Saturdays.

A frequently asked question list is at jfs.ohio.gov/unemp_comp_faq/index.stm and for coronavirus-specific information go to jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/CoronavirusAndUI.stm.

Employers with questions should email UCTech@jfs.ohio.gov.

For more information about COVID-19 in Ohio, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK ODH.