How to File for Unemployment in Virginia

File a new claim, reopen a claim and file weekly claims online through VEC's Customer Self Service (CSS) portal. Each benefit week runs Sunday through Saturday, and you can claim it only after it ends. You cannot claim weeks that are more than 21 days old. Keep filing every week even while a deputy is deciding your eligibility or an appeal is pending.

You must have earned at least $3,000 in your two highest-paid base-period quarters combined. The regular base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before your claim's effective date. If you do not qualify that way, an alternate base period of the last four completed quarters can be used.

You must be able and available to start work immediately and actively look for suitable work. Contact at least two different employers each week, in the week you are claiming. You can contact the same employer again only for a different job opening. Report your contacts through Customer Self Service. Phone filers give basic information by phone and send a written Work Search Record every four weeks. Keep complete records for one year in case of an audit. If you are directed to search for work, you must also register online at www.vawc.virginia.gov, with a VA Works office, or with a workforce agency where you live.

The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) says the fastest way to certify for weekly benefits is its Customer Self-Service (CSS) portal, where you answer weekly questions about employment, ability to work, work search and job offers. Your first weekly request must be received no later than 21 days after you applied; if you miss the window, you must reopen your claim online or call the VEC Customer Contact Center at 1-866-832-2363. If you can't use online services, certify by phone through the Voice Response System at 1-800-897-5630.