TOLEDO, Ohio — Self-employed and part-time workers in Ohio can now apply for unemployment through the federal stimulus package, state officials said Wednesday.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services began accepting applications on Tuesday and some payments will begin going out by the end of the week, said Kimberly Hall, the department’s director.

Many who were denied regular unemployment benefits may be eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, which allows for up to 39 weeks of benefits to those who are self-employed, part-time workers or 1099 tax filers.

“We encourage anyone who believes they may be eligible to apply. Even after you return to work, you still may be eligible to receive retroactive benefits, dating from as early as Feb. 2,” Hall said.

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