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Atlanta unemployment rate among highest in country

The unemployment rate has skyrocketed in Atlanta; at 8.6 percent, it's higher than the national rate of unemployment.

Only a year ago, in a word the job market was steady. There was nothing eventful going on until the growing number of home foreclosures began takes its toll on the cities economy. Then without so much as a warning, companies began laying off workers while consumers were forced to re-evaluate how they spent their money. The ripple affect of the countries economic woes made it's way to the South in a rapid fashion.

Metro Atlanta accounts for more than half of the 413,000 Georgians now officially out of work. This category does not include part-time employees, the self-employed and the many people who are too discouraged to search for a job.

According to the state Labor Department, fewer than half of the officially jobless are receiving unemployment benefits. This is not a time to feel ashamed about needing assistance.

If you are unemployed in Georgia, here are a few things to get you started:

  • Find out how to apply for unemployment benefits in Georgia. Visit The Department of Labor website to learn more.
  • Find out information on COBRA health insurance. Be aware of this option, COBRA is very expensive. Although, Congress recently passed a bill to assist with cobra covering 65% of the cost.
  • Find out how to apply for food stamps.
  • Get financial assistance with utility bills and childcare.

Most importantly the Department of Labor has trained professionals on-site to advise job seekers about the steps they need to take.

For more info: Visit the Georgia Department of Labor website at this address.
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By

Atlanta Unemployment Examiner

Sybil Barkley-Staples is the author of two novels. The recent decline in the economy has caused Sybil to rethink her life and to be creative in...

Comments

  • G182 2 years ago
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    Actually 8.6% is, in fact, the national average. Also if this writer wants to be taken seriously he/she may want to write in proper grammar.

  • s 2 years ago
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    And so the hatred begins...thanks for the view.

  • ynm 2 years ago
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    wow... ruff crowd. correct grammar or not did you understand? (some might say if you seek perfection do it yourself. then ask yourself, is this really perfect? that should keep u bizi)

    :) i say good write up, keep 'em coming! i'm always open to hearing the views of others.

  • ynm 2 years ago
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    oops i think i misspelled something :O

  • Hope R. Carlisle 2 years ago
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    nice article sybils give us a little more depth and yes there are a few grammatical errors but overall nice piece. my girl. keep up your outstanding efforts.

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