How to File for Unemployment (Any State)
Unemployment insurance is run by each state, so you file your claim with the unemployment program in the state where you worked, usually online or by phone. After you apply, you generally must file weekly or biweekly claims, keep looking for work, and report any earnings. Some states hold back a one-week waiting period, and if you are denied you can appeal within your state's deadline. Specific steps, phone numbers, and deadlines differ by state.
What the law says
- You file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. If you worked in more than one state or now live in a different state, the agency where you live can explain how to file with other states. U.S. Department of Labor, Unemployment Insurance
- The U.S. Department of Labor says to contact your state's unemployment insurance program as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. Depending on the state, claims may be filed in person, by telephone, or online. U.S. Department of Labor, Unemployment Insurance
- When you file, you will be asked for information such as addresses and dates of your former employment; giving complete and correct information helps avoid delays. It generally takes two to three weeks after you file to receive your first benefit check. U.S. Department of Labor, Unemployment Insurance
- Example (Texas): the Texas Workforce Commission asks applicants for their Social Security number, driver license or state ID number, last employer's name, address and phone number, first and last dates worked, and, if applicable, military service dates and DD Form 214 or an Alien Registration number. You can apply online through Unemployment Benefits Services or by calling a Tele-Center at 800-939-6631. Texas Workforce Commission, Apply for Unemployment Benefits
- Example (Texas): TWC says to apply as soon as you are unemployed or your hours are reduced, but not until after your last workday; your claim starts on the Sunday of the week you apply. Texas Workforce Commission, Apply for Unemployment Benefits
- After filing, you must file weekly or biweekly claims after each week has ended. Some states require a one-week waiting period, and benefits can be paid for a maximum of 26 weeks in most states. U.S. DOL Employment and Training Administration, State Unemployment Insurance Benefits
- Example (New York): claimants certify each week for the week that just ended, online or by phone at 1-888-581-5812, confirming they were unemployed and met the other conditions, including at least three work search activities that week. New claims filed on and after June 28, 2021 include an unpaid waiting week. New York State Department of Labor, Certify for Weekly Unemployment Insurance Benefits
- Example (Texas): claimants request benefit payment every two weeks on a scheduled filing day, online or through Tele-Serv at 800-558-8321, and report gross earnings for any work. Texas law requires TWC to hold the payment for the first payable week until certain conditions are met. Texas Workforce Commission, Request Benefit Payments
- Example (Texas): to keep receiving benefits you must be able to work and available for full-time work, register for work, search for work, document your work search activities, and complete a designated number of work searches based on your county. Texas Workforce Commission, Ongoing Eligibility Requirements for Receiving Unemployment Benefits
- If you are disqualified or denied benefits, you have the right to file an appeal, but you must file it within an established time frame. In Texas, for example, an appeal must be in writing within 14 calendar days from the date the Determination Notice is mailed. U.S. DOL Employment and Training Administration, State Unemployment Insurance Benefits
FAQ
Which state do I file in?
Generally the state where you worked. If you worked in several states or have moved, the agency where you live can explain how to file with other states.
Can I file by phone?
It depends on the state. New York, for example, lists a Telephone Claim Center at 1-888-209-8124 on weekdays, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, in addition to online filing.
How long until I get paid?
The U.S. Department of Labor says it generally takes two to three weeks after you file to receive your first benefit check. Times vary by state.
Do I keep certifying while my appeal is pending?
In Texas, yes: TWC says it is very important to keep submitting payment requests on schedule during an appeal until you return to full-time work.
Can I appeal by phone or email?
Not in Texas. TWC accepts appeals online, in person at a Workforce Solutions office, or by mail or fax, but not by email or telephone. Other states have their own methods.
Do I have to register for work?
Claimants may be directed to register for work with the state employment service; Texas lists registering for work as an ongoing eligibility requirement.
Related
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.