HONOLULU -- The state Department of Labor is bracing for unemployment claims to skyrocket next week, when those who are laid off or whose work hours are being cut because of the last week's terrorist attacks file for benefits.

According to the Labor Department, unemployed workers can collect up to $383 per week for up to six months. It takes about two weeks to receive the first check.

If you plan to file a claim, make sure bring a copy of your last paystub with you -- and expect a two-hour wait at the department's downtown offices. State workers say the crush of the crowd could get even worse next week.

"Tomorrow being Friday, people will get their notice," spokesman Tom Jackson said. "They are starting to realize their situation -- a lot of big companies -- so we are expecting next week to be our worst."

ABC's OF UNEMPLOYMENT Answers To Frequently Asked Questions (from Labor Department)

Jackson says that people may also find themselves without medical insurance and having to pay expense out-of-pocket if they don't qualify for other help like the QUEST program.

"It really depends on what the company is doing for its employees," Jackson said. "It's going to be on a case-by-case basis."

Many of the people applying for benefits are hotel workers. Across Waikiki, hotels have temporarily closed or are reducing hours at their restaurants because of the drastic tourism slowdown.

"It was a shock," Outrigger Hotels hostess Deesa Kamai said. "We didn't expect that."

With so much uncertainty, many workers are looking to ride out the rough times and are hoping for a quick return to their jobs.

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