Updated 3/23/20

Recent events in our state have impacted the employment of many Tennesseans. Because of this, the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) has seen a large increase in the number of unemployment claims. This increase, along with public health concerns, has prompted a change in strategy for the agency.

To meet the current demand for unemployment benefits and address public health concerns, the Department will limit access to Job Centers and shift resources to triple the number of staff trained to process claim applications.

Starting today (Monday) each Job Center across Tennessee will begin limiting access to facilities and conduct business through phone and internet. This change will allow state-employed staff to switch their focus from workforce development tasks to claims processing.

The Department will extend customer service hours to 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Friday to serve additional claimants.