How to Treat CARES Act’s Changes to Unemployment Benefits

Since the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was enacted in March, millions of unemployed workers have claimed unemployment benefits that were more generous than they normally would’ve received, including those who would’ve received no benefits at all. The CARES Act’s boost in benefit levels expired on July 31 and its eligibility expansions and additional weeks of benefits will expire on Dec. 31.