Have you been suffering from losing your job during COVID-19? I hope you do not. If you, unfortunately, get laid off now, don’t be too upset. After all, you’re among 36 million in the US alone while the number still keeps rising.
Unemployment brings forward challenges. You’ll have difficulty in paying the bill or raising the family. Luckily, the US congress just released cash to those become unemployed not due to their own fault.
We’re here to provide you the steps to file for unemployment benefits in all states around the US with as simple words as possible so that you and your family will go through your tough days quickly.
Note: You can either directly scroll down to the specific guide instructing you how to file for unemployment benefits in your state or go through a must-read reminder ensuring your filing go smooth and saving your time when filing for unemployment benefits.
A Must-Read Reminder: Preparations You Should Make Before Unemployment Benefits Filing
Have safe Internet access
Because people are suggested to stay at home during COVID-19, everything needs to be dealt with on the Internet. As you file for unemployment benefits, the Internet is also necessary for you to fill in the information and submit your claim. Remember not to use public WiFi to get access to the labor department website since it’s possible your personal information tends to be snooped by hackers. If you have to use public WiFi for budget consideration (after all, public WiFi is usually free), it’s a great idea to use a VPN to protect your online security and privacy. It’s not expensive but reliable. Some VPNs can be even used for free.
Prepare a US phone number
Yes, you need to contact the outside and a telephone number is a must. However, it’s very understandable the difficult time stops you from keeping a landline due to its high expense. Use Dingtone instead to make an international call for free, from a real US number. As you file for unemployment benefits, you’re usually required to fill in your contact information and government officials need to confirm with you when necessary. The Dingtone US number can be used to be reached by them.
Prepare an online fasting app on your smartphone
In the process of unemployment benefits claiming, some files concerning you with your signature are required to be submitted to testify you’re qualified to file for it. However, the stay-at-home regulation stops you from going outside. It’s easy actually. Download a mobile faxing app on your phone and scan your file, edit and send it out from it. This type of application isn’t new to those who usually go out for their business, I think.
Keep a valid bank account
If you successfully file for the benefits, you should find a bank account to save it. Therefore, it’s necessary to prepare a bank card. It’s possible that some states have a specified bank card and you should confirm that by going over the official handbook.
Clarify whether you’re compatible with the unemployment requirement
Each state has different eligibility for unemployment benefits filing that is, however, clearly defined at the beginning of the handbook each state provides. Therefore, remember to carefully read the handbook before applying for it.
A Complete Guide on How to File for Unemployment Benefits in All States
Alabama
To file for unemployment benefits in Alabama, you can either file for it by Internet or phone.
- By Internet
Step 1. Go to www.labor.alabama.gov;
Step 2. Click on “Unemployment”;
Step 3: Tick “File Claim”;
Step 4. Select “Establish a New or Reopen a UC Claim” and follow the prompts.
- By Phone
You can call the toll-free number, 866-234-5382 to file your claim.
Alaska
To file for unemployment benefits in Alaska, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to https://labor.alaska.gov/;
Step 2. Click on “File for UI benefits here” (it’s very easy to find since it is shown very big);
Step 3: Login myAlaska account and follow the prompts to file.
For help as you file for benefits, you can call the toll-free number, 866-377-0126.
Arizona
To file for unemployment benefits in Arizona, you can use the Internet, phone, or email.
- By Internet
You can apply online at anytime between 12:00 am on Sunday through 6:00 pm on Friday
Step 1. Go to https://des.az.gov/services/employment/unemployment-individual/apply-ui-benefits;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to file.
- By Phone
You can call the toll-free number from Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 9:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m. 877-600-2722 to file your claim.
- By Email
Submit a claim by mail after downloading and filling Arizona Initial Claim for Unemployment Insurance.
Arkansas
To file for unemployment benefits in Arkansas, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to https://www.dws.arkansas.gov/unemployment/how-to-file-a-ui-claim/;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to file.
For help as you file for benefits, you can call the number, 855-225-4440 or 501-682-2121.
California
To file for unemployment benefits in California, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Log in to Benefit Programs Online;
Step 2. Select UI Online;
Step 3. Select File a Claim;
Step 4. Read the UI Claim Filing Instructions. Follow the prompts to file.
Colorado
To file for unemployment benefits in Colorado, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdle/notice-about-filing-unemployment-benefits;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to file.
To better know how to file for it, this video may work.
Connecticut
To file for unemployment benefits in Connecticut, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to http://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/ui-online/;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to file.
To better know how to file for it, this video may work.
Delaware
To file for unemployment benefits in Delaware, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to https://uics.delawareworks.com/Forms/Form_WL1;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to file.
Florida
To file for unemployment benefits in Florida, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/florida-unemployment/ to check your eligibility and other reminders;
Step 2. File your online unemployment claim here.
For help as you file for benefits, you can call the number, 800-204-2418.
Georgia
To file for unemployment benefits in Georgia since you get laid off because of COVID-19, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Hawaii
To file for unemployment benefits in Hawaii, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Idaho
To file for unemployment benefits in Idaho, you can file for it in the following ways.
Step 1. Apply online at labor.idaho.gov/;
Step 2. Report to your nearest local Idaho Department of Labor office;
Step 3. Call your nearest local Idaho Department of Labor office.
For help as you file for benefits, you can call the number, 208-332-3574.
Illinois
To file for unemployment benefits in Illinois, you can use the Internet or phone.
- By Internet
Step 1. Go to this page;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to file.
- By Phone
You can call the number 800-244-5631 to file your claim.
Indiana
To file for unemployment benefits in Indiana, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Iowa
To file for unemployment benefits in Iowa, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Kansas
To file for unemployment benefits in Kansas, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Kentucky
To file for unemployment benefits in Kentucky, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Louisiana
To file for unemployment benefits in Louisiana, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Maine
To file for unemployment benefits in Maine, you can either file for it by Internet or phone.
- By Internet
Step 1. Go to http://www.file4ui.com/;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to finish filing.
- By Phone
You can call the toll-free number, 800-593-7660 to file your claim.
Maryland
To file for unemployment benefits in Maryland, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Massachusetts
To file for unemployment benefits in Massachusetts, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Michigan
To file for unemployment benefits in Michigan, you can either file for it by Internet or phone.
- By Internet
Step 1. Go to https://www.michigan.gov/leo/0,5863,7-336-78421_97241—,00.html;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to finish filing.
- By Phone
You can call the toll-free number, 866-500-0017 to file your claim.
Minnesota
To file for unemployment benefits in Minnesota, you can either file for it by Internet or phone.
- By Internet
Step 1. Go to https://www.uimn.org/;
Step 2. Click on “Applicants” and then on “Apply for Benefits”;
Step 3. Follow the prompts to finish filing.
- By Phone
You can call the number, 651-296-3644 (Twin Cities calling area); 1-877-898-9090 (outside of the Twin Cities calling area); 1-866-814-1252 (TTY for the hearing impaired).
Mississippi
As soon as you become unemployed, you may file a claim for unemployment insurance benefits online or by calling 601-855-3133 or 1-888-844-3577.
Note: MDES (Mississippi Department of Employment Security) will no longer accept new or reopened unemployment claims on Monday and Tuesday. However, people who served on active duty in the military or earned wages in another state or a federal agency may continue to file by phone on Mondays and Tuesdays. You can file claims online anytime on this website.
Missouri
DES encourages individuals to file their claims online at uinteract.labor.mo.gov. interact, Missouri’s unemployment system, is mobile-friendly and available 24/7 to meet consumer needs. Filing a claim takes on average about ten minutes, whether an individual file online or is assisted by a claims specialist.
Montana
To file for unemployment benefits in Montana, you can either file for it by Internet or phone.
- By Internet
Step 1. Go to https://login.montanaworks.gov/sso/XUI/?realm=mw#login;
Step 2. Follow the prompts to finish filing.
- By Phone
You can call the toll-free number, 406-444-2545 to file your claim.
Nebraska
To file for unemployment benefits in Nebraska, you can file for it on the Internet.
Step 1. Go to https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx;
Step 2. Click on “Unemployment” and then on “Log In To Access Unemployment Services”;
Step 3. Follow the prompts to finish filing.
Nevada
To file for unemployment benefits in Nevada, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
New Hampshire
To file for unemployment benefits in New Hampshire, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
New Jersey
To file for unemployment benefits in New Jersey, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
New York
To file for unemployment benefits in New York, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
North Carolina
To file for unemployment benefits in North Carolina, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
North Dakota
There are two ways to file your claim in North Dakota:
- Online using Job Service North Dakota’s UI ICE internet site, or;
- By telephone using our automated telephone system by calling (701) 328-4995
Please note: The UI ICE internet application and the automated phone system are unavailable daily from 10:00 pm to midnight Central Time due to maintenance. Claims Center staff are available Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Central Time.
Ohio
There are two ways to file your claim in Ohio:
- The fastest and easiest way is to file online at ohio.gov. You can file 24 hours a day, 7 days a week;
- You can file for unemployment benefits by phone Monday through Friday (except holidays) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling 877-644-6562 or TTY 614-387-8408.
Oklahoma
To file for unemployment benefits in Oklahoma, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Oregon
There are two ways to file your claim in Oregon:
You can file online using the Online Claims System and select the option “File your new claim.”
OR
By phone (click for a list of phone numbers). You will need to provide your complete work history for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, phone numbers, and dates of employment.
Pennsylvania
To file for unemployment benefits in Pennsylvania, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Rhode Island
To file for unemployment benefits in Rhode Island, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
South Carolina
To file for unemployment benefits in South Carolina, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
South Dakota
To file for unemployment benefits in South Dakota, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Tennessee
To file for unemployment benefits in Tennessee, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Texas
To file for unemployment benefits in Texas, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
To file for unemployment benefits in Utah, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Vermont
To file for unemployment benefits in Vermont, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Virginia
To file for unemployment benefits in Virginia, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Washington
To file for unemployment benefits in Washington, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Washington D.C.
To file for unemployment benefits in Washington D.C., you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
West Virginia
To file for unemployment benefits in West Virginia, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Wisconsin
Steps to file for unemployment benefits in Wisconsin:
Step#1: Go to my.unemployment.wisconsin.gov;
Step#2: Read and accept Terms and Conditions;
Step#3: Create a username and password;
Step#4: Logon to access online benefit services;
Step#5: Complete your application.
Online services are available at the following times to apply for benefits:
Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Monday to Friday 6:00 AM -7:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Wyoming
To file for unemployment benefits in Wyoming, you can start from this page, and then you’ll know how to file for it.
Some Tips for You to Overcome Financial Crisis During COVID-19
- Stay optimistic.
Still, remember “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself”? It applies to the current situation as well. Although it seems a little hard, you must. Keep totally optimistic at medical staff’s efforts, medical technology, or even everyone just like you who’d like to give up their jobs or entertainment for public security.
- Cut cost.
Cost control is so necessary for this difficult time. Up to now, I think you’ve already been accustomed to live without parties or traveling, which is great. For the fees for your daily contact, it is a little difficult to cut it down since people need to express their love and care to their loved ones. However, you can use Dingtone to make free international calls and text to obtain a perfect balance between love and cost.
- Apply for jobs that can be done from home.
How is possible for working from home to become a trend in the future? Based on tech giants, 100%. Accept it or not, you should get ready for remote work sooner or later. As a result, more employees will extremely possibly be allowed or encouraged to work from home. To go through difficult times, why not apply for a job that can be done at home? Perhaps, it’ll be your new job as coronavirus ends.