The state of Ohio will begin denying unemployment benefits for those not returning to work as the economy reopens due to the coronavirus.

However, there are exceptions to the criteria that will still allow some to keep unemployment benefits even if their employers return to work. 

Employees could continue to receive benefits if they meet one of the following criteria:

• If you are 65 and older
• If you have proof from a medical professional that you are at a high risk of contracting COVID-19
• Have been exposed to COVID-19 and need to quarantine
• Caring for a relative who has contracted COVID-19 
• Has evidence of a health or safety violation by your employer

If you are not returning to work and can not provide proof of one of the criteria, you could be at risk of losing unemployment benefits because of the coronavirus pandemic.