If you have been laid off from your job you may be able to file for unemployment online without visiting an unemployment office. In many states, unemployed workers can apply for unemployment benefits online or over the phone. In New York, for example, can visit Unemployment Services web site to file a new unemployment claim, claim weekly benefits, or check on the status of an existing unemployment compensation claim. Filing by phone is also an option.
California unemployed workers, as another example, can also file an Unemployment Insurance claim by completing an online form. In addition, there is a form that can printed out, completed, and mailed or faxed, as well as a toll free number to call to file for unemployment via the telephone.
Get Your Unemployment Claim Information Ready
Before you file, check with your state unemployment office to determine the best way to open a claim.
Requirements may vary from state to state, but, here is a sampling of the information you will need to have available when filing for unemployment:
Claimant Questions
You may be asked whether you want taxes withheld from your unemployment check. You also may be asked if you are owed vacation or holiday pay. In addition, the unemployment office will want to know the reason you left the job. The criteria for unemployment eligibility includes being out of work because of no fault of your own. If you quit or if there are questions on your termination, the application process may be more complicated. However, if your claim is denied, there is an appeals process.
Claimants will also be asked to create a user name and/or password in order to login to their account to file for unemployment benefits.
Filing for Benefits
Once you have filed your initial claim for unemployment benefits, you will be able to go to your account each week and apply for benefits. Claimants can also check on the status of the claim to see when checks were mail and to review how much unemployment compensation is left in your account.
Have a question or need more information?
Contact your state unemployment office. You may find the information you need online or you will be able to find a phone number to call for assistance.
Additional Resources:
Unemployment
Unemployment benefits, unemployment rates, compensation, unemployment offices, extended unemployment benefits and how to file for unemployment.
