Logging In to Your Virginia Unemployment Claim
Where to log in to your Virginia unemployment claim, file weekly or biweekly certifications, check payment status, and get help.
Short answer: 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. Virginia Employment Commission, Certify for Weekly Benefits
| Logging in and filing weekly claims | 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. CSS login: https://uidirect.vec.virginia.gov/CSS/CSSLogon.htm?locale=en |
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| How to apply | 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. |
| Work search requirements | 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. |
Where to get help in Virginia
More Virginia unemployment benefits
- Unemployment for Self-Employed and Gig Workers in Virginia
- Unemployment After Being Fired in Virginia
- Unemployment After Quitting in Virginia
- How Much Unemployment Pays in Virginia
- How to File for Unemployment in Virginia
- All Virginia unemployment benefits rules
FAQ
Where do I log in to my unemployment claim in Virginia?
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.
How do I apply 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.
What are the work search requirements for unemployment in Virginia?
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.
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.