You can file for unemployment insurance (UI) by contacting your state’s unemployment insurance program. Click here to find contact information for your state’s program.

To find your state, go to Location and click on the drop down arrow. Select your state and click on the Search button. A new page will appear with links to general information about your state’s unemployment insurance program as well as links for how to file your claim. Depending on your state you may be able to file online, or by telephone. Due to the outbreak, many states have implemented restrictions on in person visits.

In general you should file your claim in the state where you work(ed). If you’re unsure about where to file your claim, contact the state agency where you live for guidance.

Since last week a record number of people have been filing for unemployment insurance, so expect longer than normal wait times.

Changes to Unemployment Insurance Because of COVID-19 Outbreak

The Senate passed a bill last night that would provide an additional $250 billion in Federal funding, increasing standard weekly benefits by $600 a week for the next four months.

Because of the COVID-19 outbreak many states have already amended their existing laws to provide additional unemployment insurance benefits and to temporarily lift certain requirements and restrictions on benefits. These changes may allow you to apply for benefits if: your employer has temporarily ceased operations due to COVID-19, if you are under quarantine or caring for a family member, or if you have left employment due to a risk of exposure.

Many states have also removed the requirement that you actively be seeking work in order to receive benefits as well as increasing the speed with which benefits are delivered.

Click here to find out what rule changes your state has made to its unemployment insurance program in response to COVID-19.