How to File for Unemployment in Tennessee

If you need to file for unemployment in Tennessee, you can do so online, by phone or in person.

Unemployment benefits can serve as a lifeline to workers who lose their jobs or are laid off temporarily. In Tennessee, as in other states, these benefits are paid out of taxes levied on employers. If you have lost your job and need to file for unemployment in Tennessee, you can do so online, by phone or in person.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Decide if you may be eligible to file for unemployment in Tennessee. Tennessee pays unemployment benefits if you are out of work through no fault of your own or if you are laid off, even if you expect to be recalled by your employer. You also may qualify if you are working for reduced pay/hours (partially unemployed). You must have sufficient income during the base period, which is the 15 months prior to becoming unemployed.

2. Choose the best way to file for unemployment in Tennessee. You can file online (see Resources), but you may want to file in person or by phone if you are unfamiliar with claiming unemployment. To file for unemployment in Tennessee by phone, call 1-877-813-0950. You can file in person at any Department of Labor and Workforce Development Career Center (see Resources).

3. Have the required information ready, including your Social Security number and your driver’s license number. If your employer gave you a separation notice, have that as well as the name, address and telephone number of your employer, and the reason you are out of work. You also will need a list of names and contact information for all employers you have worked for in the past 18 months.

4. Allow about two weeks for your benefits to start.

5. Report any earnings you have each week, even if you won’t be paid until later.

Tips & Warnings

• You may be asked about your job-search activities. You can register to check in weekly online (see Resources).

• The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development Career Centers are more than just offices that process unemployment claims. They also provide job search tools, job listings and placement services, information about job training programs, and advice on interviewing and other job-finding skills.

• Unemployment benefits start from the time you file, not from the date you were out of work, so it’s important to file as quickly as possible.

• You will not receive benefits for the first week you are unemployed until your status is certified. However, initial payments will be made retroactively if you qualify.

Resources

• Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development: Unemployment Claims
• Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development: Career Center Locator