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If you’re ever out of a job or otherwise unable to work, some questions might spring to mind. Should you file for unemployment? Where do you file for unemployment? And perhaps, most importantly, how do you file for unemployment?
Getting clear answers to these questions can be a challenge, resulting in many people feeling intimidated by the process of filing for unemployment benefits.
But it doesn’t have to be.
In this post, we’re going to cover where and how to file for unemployment in every state in the United States. But first, let’s cover some basics.
Unemployment insurance – often referred to as “unemployment benefits” – is a joint state-federal program under the U.S. Department of Labor. The primary goal of this program is to provide financial assistance to eligible workers. Technically, every state manages its own separate unemployment program, but each program must also follow basic guidelines established as federal law.
The eligibility requirements for unemployment insurance vary from state to state, but a worker is generally considered eligible if they:
If you believe you may be eligible based on those general requirements, the next step is to make note of the specifics of your state’s unemployment program.
Keep scrolling to check out our state-by-state breakdown of unemployment basics with links to in-depth information you need to file for benefits.
To file for unemployment in Alabama, visit the state claims page here, log in, and follow the instructions. You’ll need your social security number and your most recent employment information to do so. For identity verification purposes, you will also need a driver’s license or state-issued ID card and your mother’s maiden name.
If you’re unable to file online, you can also file for unemployment in Alabama by telephone. Check out this list for the appropriate number.
If you have further questions, please visit the Alabama Department of Labor’s Unemployment Insurance Program page.
You can file for unemployment in Alaska by clicking “Unemployment Insurance Benefits” at this link. You’ll need to register a myAlaska account to file your claim.
If you need assistance regarding an already filed or in-progress claim, call the claim center closest to your area, as listed in this directory. You can also find general unemployment information for Alaska here.
To file online for unemployment in Arizona, visit the state’s Unemployment Insurance application page. Follow the step-by-step instructions carefully, as Arizona requires you to file weekly claims to continue your benefits. You can apply online anytime between 12AM on Sunday through 6PM on Friday.
If you have questions or would like to apply by telephone, dial the appropriate number for your area, which is listed here.
For general unemployment information, follow the links from Arizona’s online directory for Unemployment Insurance Benefits.
You can file for unemployment in Arkansas through the EZARC (Easy Arkansas Claims) system. You can also visit the nearest Arkansas Workforce Center to file a claim in person.
If you need help filing a claim, visit the Contact Unemployment Insurance page.
For further unemployment information, please visit the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Claim Help page.
You can file for unemployment in California online, by phone, by fax, or even by mail. Start the process by visiting the Employment Development Department’s “Filing a Claim” website. Create an account on the website to kick off the process.
Visit the unemployment page for more information about the types of claims and eligibility requirements.
If you need help filing for unemployment insurance in California, contact the Employment Development Department.
You can file for unemployment in Colorado by filing an online claim or by calling a dedicated call center.
To file an online claim, you must create a myUI+ account on the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website. We also recommend checking out the Unemployment Insurance Claimant Guide to understand the process before starting an application.
To file for unemployment in Connecticut, check out the state’s online claim filing website. Connecticut requires you to file a claim through the ReEmployCT portal, and you must create an account to do so.
Make sure to pay special attention to the instructions, as you will be required to complete a weekly claim certification. You can also find more information at the Connecticut Department of Labor’s Guide to Unemployment Insurance.
To file for unemployment in Delaware, you’ll need to start an online claim on the state website. Please note that after you file your claim, you’ll also have to register with the state’s Claimant Portal in order to submit information and documents to the appropriate offices.
You can also speak with a live agent here or contact support if you have any questions or concerns.
For your reference, the Delaware Department of Labor also currently provides general unemployment information on its website, as well as a convenient Unemployment Benefits FAQ.
You can file for unemployment in Washington, D.C., by visiting the DC Networks online portal. You can also call directly at (202) 724-7000. In addition, you can find general information at the D.C. Office of Unemployment Compensation.
Florida refers to its unemployment program as “Reemployment Assistance Benefits.” To file for unemployment in Florida, start the process through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity or call directly at (833) 352-7759.
If you plan to apply online, refer to the Apply of Benefits page for guides and step-by-step videos on how to file a claim through the Reconnect self-service portal.
For more information on reemployment assistance in Florida, visit the Reemployment Assistance Service Center.
To file for unemployment in Georgia, you can follow a series of instructions for filing on the Department of Labor’s official website, or you can call the Interactive Voice Response Telephone Number to seek additional information first. General information on unemployment benefits for the state of Georgia can be found here.
You can file for unemployment in Hawaii by registering with the state’s online portal, but please note that the portal restricts the hours during which a claim can be submitted.
For general unemployment information, visit the state of Hawaii’s Unemployment Insurance website.
To file for Unemployment in Idaho, you can either visit the state’s iUS Claimant Portal or call the Department of Labor directly.
The Idaho Department of Labor also provides a handy directory of information and resources on their Unemployment Benefits home page or the Claimant Guide.
You can file for unemployment in Illinois online, by telephone, or in person at your nearest Illinois Department of Employment Security office.
Before applying, we recommend you check out the IDES’ list of 10 Things You Should Know. Pay close attention to the reporting section to understand your responsibilities as a claimant.
You can only file for unemployment in Indiana via the state’s Claimant Self-Service (CSS) Portal, but the Department of Workforce Development also offers extensive information resources through its Indiana Unemployment directory. You can also read the Indiana Unemployment Claimant Handbook for an in-depth look at the process.
To file for unemployment in Iowa, you must log in to the Unemployment Benefits Online Application System during specified hours. Keep in mind that this portal will not be available outside the specified hours.
However, the Iowa Department of Workforce Development provides general information through its Unemployment Insurance Benefits home page at all times.
At the time of writing, Iowa offers Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for those affected by recent storms.
You can access general information and file for unemployment in Kansas through the internet or telephone by accessing the Kansas Department of Labor’s Unemployment Benefits home page. The website also offers tutorial videos and a benefits calculator to prepare for the application process.
Please note that you will be required to register or log in to the state’s online portal to file an application or weekly claim. This portal is only available at certain hours of the day, so make sure to do your research ahead of time.
Workers can file for unemployment in Kentucky either online or via telephone, both during restricted hours only.
In-person applications can be made at select Kentucky Career Center locations. You can find addresses for those offices as well as general unemployment information on the Kentucky Career Center’s “If You Are Unemployed” page.
At the time of writing, The Kentucky Career Center is also accepting applications for Disaster Unemployment Insurance for those affected by recent storms.
To file for unemployment in Louisiana, you’ll have to register with and work through the state’s HiRE program online portal or call directly at (866) 783-5567. In the portal, you can also find eligibility and payment information for a smoother application process.
Additional unemployment and reemployment information can be found on the Louisiana Workforce Commission’s home page.
To file for unemployment in Maine, workers must first create a ReEmployME online account and then file a claim through the Maine Department of Labor’s online portal. Alternatively, workers in Maine can file by an automatic telephone service at (800) 593-7660.
We also advise that you refer to the Maine Department of Labor’s website for more information before starting the application process.
You can file for unemployment in Maryland through the Department of Labor’s BEACON Unemployment Insurance Application or by calling the appropriate unemployment insurance call center for your area.
Further information can be found on the Department of Labor’s Division of Unemployment Insurance home page.
Maryland also has a Frequently Asked Questions page for worker inquiries related to unemployment insurance.
Workers can file for unemployment in Massachusetts by either logging into the state’s online Unemployment Insurance portal or via telephone by reaching their TeleClaim Center at (617) 626-6800.
Links to further unemployment information can be found on Massachusetts' Department of Unemployment Assistance home page, including a page dedicated to updates about unemployment benefits.
To file for unemployment in Michigan, workers can access the Michigan Web Account Manager for Unemployment Insurance or call (866) 500-0017. Readers should also refer to the Claimant Roadmap for a step-by-step guide.
General information is available on the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s unemployment insurance home page.
To file for unemployment in Minnesota, you can file a claim online or by telephone between 6AM and 8PM, Sundays through Fridays. Please note that the online portal will be closed outside the above mentioned hours and on holidays.
Further information for unemployment insurance applicants can be found on the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance Applicant page.
You can file for unemployment in Mississippi by calling (601) 493-9427 or by accessing the Mississippi Department of Employment Security’s Online Services System.
General information on unemployment insurance claims can be found on the MDES benefits home page.
You can file for unemployment in Missouri by logging into Missouri’s Online Unemployment System or by calling the phone number appropriate to your region.
You can also use the Missouri Department of Labor & Industrial Relations website to research the filing and claiming process.
To file for unemployment in Montana, you can access the Montana Department of Labor and Industry’s UI Claimant Center or call their Claims Processing Center at (406) 444-2545.
General unemployment information can be found on the Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s Unemployment Insurance Division home page.
In order to file for unemployment in Nebraska, you’ll first have to register an account on Nebraska’s reemployment website, NEworks, where you can also find information about unemployment services. After you’ve registered, you can log into the system and file a claim under the Unemployment Services menu.
For further information, the Nebraska Department of Labor provides a detailed FAQ on filing an application.
You can file for unemployment in Nevada by accessing their online system and registering as a new claimant. If you have questions, you can speak to a claim representative by telephone in Northern Nevada at (775) 684-0350 or in Southern Nevada at (702) 486-0350.
For further information, check out the Nevada Claimant’s Handbook or their Unemployment Insurance FAQ.
To file for unemployment in New Hampshire, log in to the New Hampshire Employment Security’s online portal. The portal also features a step-by-step guide on how to file for unemployment benefits.
You can also reach out with questions to the Unemployment Assistance Hotline at (603) 271-7700 between the hours of 8:30AM and 4:30PM, Mondays through Fridays.
Workers also have the option to file in person at a New Hampshire Employment Security Office during working hours.
You can file for unemployment in New Jersey by starting with the state’s step-by-step guide to online filing. Workers have the option of applying online or applying by phone. To apply online, you must first register an account with the New Jersey Department of Labour and Workforce Development.
For more in-depth information on unemployment in New Jersey, check out this helpful link before you apply.
The easiest way to file for unemployment in New Mexico is to register an account with the New Mexico Workforce Connection Online System and file your initial claim online.
Claimants may also file via telephone at (877) 664-6984. After following the automated prompts, your call will be transferred to a live Customer Service Agent who will complete your claim. The Unemployment Insurance Operations Center is open between 8AM and 4:30PM, Mondays through Fridays.
Workers affected by natural disasters, such as the recent fires in New Mexico, can also apply for Disaster Unemployment Insurance.
To file for unemployment in New York, you must use your NY.gov ID to sign in and file your claim online with the New York Department of Labor.
For more information on the application process, check out this step-by-step guide. New York also provides a Claimant Handbook in multiple languages to help you understand the process from start to finish.
You can file for unemployment in North Carolina online 24/7. Get started by creating an account with the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Your account also provides direct access to the Claimant Self-Service Portal, where you can get information about your claim at any time.
You can also file a claim by calling the Customer Call Center at (888) 737-0259, Mondays through Fridays, between 8AM and 5PM.
For more information, refer to the What You Need to File for Unemployment or the FAQ page.
To file for unemployment in North Dakota, you can either file your claim online or by telephone using the automated system at (701) 328-4995. The telephone system is live Monday through Friday between 8AM and 5PM.
Before you file, be sure to read the relevant information regarding unemployment eligibility. Another valuable resource is the Unemployment for Individuals page, which features a benefits calculator, claimant guide, and how-to videos.
You can file for unemployment in Ohio either online by registering an account with your social security number or by telephone at (877) 644-6562. Phone services are available Mondays through Fridays between 8AM and 5PM.
Workers can learn more by reading the Quick Tips and Step-by-Step Guide for filing unemployment claims.
To file for unemployment in Oklahoma, we advise that you file online using the state’s Claimant Access Link. Before you begin, helpful information regarding the filing process can be found here.
If you experience any difficulties with the online system filing an initial or weekly claim, you can always use Oklahoma’s Interactive Voice Response System at (405) 525-1500. This line is available Mondays through Fridays between 8AM and 4:15PM.
As of March 2024, Oregon has shifted its unemployment services to Frances Online. To file for unemployment benefits, you must create an account on this website. It also offers a variety of guides and resources to help you through the procedure.
General information regarding unemployment insurance can also be found on this page.
To file for unemployment insurance in Pennsylvania, check out the Office of Unemployment Compensation website. When you’re ready, navigate to the File a Claim page to begin. You can also file over the phone using Pennsylvania’s statewide toll-free number at (800) 313-7284.
The state of Pennsylvania also offers a videophone filing option for individuals who use American Sign Language (ASL). This service can be reached at (717) 704-8474 between 8AM and 12PM on Wednesdays and between 12PM and 4PM on Fridays.
Another great research tool is the Claimant FAQ section, which covers a wide range of information regarding unemployment benefits.
You can file for unemployment in Puerto Rico online by calling (787) 945-7900 or by visiting your nearest local office. The Unemployment Insurance page is also an excellent tool for research before filing.
To file for unemployment in Rhode Island, you can file online using the Department of Labor and Training’s Claims System or call them directly at (401) 415-6772. If this is your first time filing for unemployment, take a look at the How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits page for a thorough breakdown.
For more information on eligibility and benefits, the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training maintains a helpful FAQ page.
You can file for unemployment in South Carolina by applying for benefits online. To help you navigate the process, South Carolina provides these guidelines for using their portal.
The Department of Employment and Workforce also has a beneficial FAQ section and a Claimant Handbook.
You can file for unemployment in South Dakota by creating an online account or calling (605) 626-2452 between 8AM and 4:20PM. To learn more about logging in or registering for an account, click here.
You can file for unemployment in Tennessee by filing your claim online or by contacting telephone support for unemployment insurance filing at (844) 224-5818.
Please note the State of Tennessee’s specific reporting requirements for collecting unemployment benefits. For example, starting July 2024, you must complete at least four job searches a week.
To file for unemployment in Texas, file your claim online through the Unemployment Benefits Services page or call the TWC Tele-Center at (800) 939-6631. The number is available between 8AM to 6PM, Mondays through Fridays.
The Texas Workforce Commission Help Desk also offers information on benefits, claims, appeals, and work search requirements.
To file for unemployment in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you’ll have to apply in person at the appropriate local office or online through the Depart of Labor Online Portal. Click here for a guide on how to apply for unemployment benefits.
You can find claims assistance by calling the appropriate telephone number by region:
For more information on unemployment insurance in the U.S. Virgin Islands, check out this overview.
To file for unemployment in Utah, you’ll first have to go through the state’s Preliminary Monetary Determination using your social security number and employment history. You can then file an initial claim online here. You will not be able to complete your claim if you submit a form after 11:45PM, but your form will be saved.
The state of Utah has put together a separate Unemployment Insurance Benefits page with more information about the application process.
Workers can file for unemployment in Vermont through the state’s online unemployment portal or by calling the Insurance Claims Center at (877) 214-3330.
We recommend checking out the Vermont Department of Labour’s Step-by-Step Guide before starting an application.
You can file for unemployment in Virginia online or by telephone at (866) 832-2363. The phone line is available between 8:15AM and 4:30PM, Mondays through Fridays.
Before you begin filing your claim, be sure to check the state’s unemployment guidelines. The FAQ page is another valuable resource.
To file for unemployment in Washington, log into the SecureAccess Washington (SAW) online portal or call (800) 318-6022.
Individuals filing for unemployment benefits are also encouraged to read the Unemployed Worker Handbook.
To file for unemployment in West Virginia, you must file your initial claim online through the WorkForce West Virginia Unemployment Compensation Division Web Application. You can make further inquiries at your local WorkForce West Virginia office, but initial claims are not accepted in person.
At the time of writing, the State of West Virginia is updating its work search requirements, so keep track of any updates as you file a claim.
For general information, please visit the WorkForce West Virginia unemployment directory.
You can file for unemployment in Wisconsin by either filing for benefits online or calling the appropriate phone number. Please note that hours are restricted for both online and telephone services.
For general unemployment information, check out the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s unemployment insurance information directory. For additional support, refer to the Claimant Handbook.
You can file for unemployment in Wyoming by accessing the state’s online unemployment insurance portal.
Alternatively, you can file a claim via telephone by calling (307) 473-3789 for in-state services and (866) 729-7799 for out-of-state services.
General unemployment insurance resources are available in the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Unemployment Insurance Claimant Handbook.
Filing for unemployment shouldn’t feel intimidating. Nearly every state operates multiple sources providing up-to-date information to workers.
Need more info about United States labor laws? Check out our post on the complete list of overtime laws by state and worker classification tests by state. Ready to streamline your company’s finances and payroll? Try Wrapbook today!
At Wrapbook, we pride ourselves on providing outstanding free resources to producers and their crews, but this post is for informational purposes only as of the date above. The content on our website is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for legal, accounting, or tax advice. You should consult with your own legal, accounting, or tax advisors to determine how this general information may apply to your specific circumstances.
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