COVID-19 Resources
UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE AND DISPLACEMENT RESOURCES (UI AND SASMI)
If you are applying for unemployment as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, follow these key tips to receive quick and reliable benefits:
- Apply online. State-run call centers and offices are closed or operating with limited staffing. The fastest way is to apply online by following these instructions: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-unemployment-benefits
- Enter “LAYOFF” as your reason for unemployment. Please consult the below powerpoint for a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
- Do NOT enter a “return to work” or “recall” date. Although some public officials have identified plans to re-evaluate suspensions of construction work, this is not a guarantee that work will resume at that time.
For more information about applying for unemployment during this time, please review this powerpoint guide: http://bit.ly/2QxCZ8S
If you are unsure if you qualify for unemployment insurance (UI) or have general information about receiving unemployment, please review this guide from Greater Boston Legal Services and Mass. Law Reform: https://bit.ly/2Qywlz5
For information on benefits available for eligible and qualified SASMI members affected by COVID-19, visit SASMI.org or click here: https://bit.ly/2wfg1wo
For Frequently Asked Questions on SASMI benefits, click here: https://bit.ly/2U5hQEX
FROM THE FUNDS OFFICE
Read this message from Health & Welfare Funds Administrator Robert W. Keogh and review what we’re doing to help protect your health and safety: https://bit.ly/3bh5gbM
UPDATING YOUR RECORD
Until future notice, please refer to the following documents to ensure timely payments and maintain updated records:
- Given the possibility of delays as a result of COVID-19, retirees and beneficiaries are strongly encouraged to sign up for Direct Deposit to ensure they receive timely payments: http://bit.ly/2J06uvN
- For information regarding federal and state withholdings for Retirees & Beneficiaries, and how to update your withholdings, click here: http://bit.ly/2IXwqrS
- For information about the Plan’s current Disqualifying Employment provisions, including work after retirement, click here: http://bit.ly/33Hv1zr
ADVISORY FROM LOCAL 17
All Boston and Cambridge construction sites are currently shut down. This is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping our city, our country, and the world.
Our contractors are evaluating projects on a case-by-case basis and determining how to secure all job sites. We will be in contact with members who will be needed on skeleton crews to ensure these job sites are secured by the end of the day. This ban will be in effect for at least 14 days, at which time the city will reevaluate the situation.
This shutdown is ONLY the case in the Cities of Boston and Cambridge. We are monitoring Somerville and the surrounding areas, along with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and will keep you posted. Members who are well, but need to take care of a child or a sick family member should notify their contractor and Business Agent, and stay home. Please review our previous guidance for details.
Sheet Metal Workers Local 17 is here for our members during these uncertain and upsetting times. We also will be sharing resources for displaced members in the coming days, and encourage you to visit the Massachusetts Building Trades website for more information, including unemployment insurance updates.
Please reach out to your Business Agent with any questions or concerns.
We will get through this together, as one Union.
