The $600 per-week benefits for unemployed U.S. workers will expire on July 31, leaving the millions of Americans in limbo as the country continues its fight against COVID-19.

As the deadline for the benefits approaches, employment has not picked up in many parts of the country.

Lawmakers are expected in Washington next week to debate an extension of the program.

According to AFP, President Donald Trump favors a payroll tax cut while Democrats want to see the benefits extended.

Citing Oxford Economics, the AFP report says the expiration of the benefits would lead unemployed individuals to lose about two-thirds of their income in August.

Extending the benefits through December would lift US growth around two percent in the fourth quarter and "preserve one million jobs compared to a sudden-stop policy."

Critics of the money however say the payments discourage workers, especially those in low-wage jobs, from seeking employment.