How to File for Unemployment in Colorado

You live in the state of Colorado and you have recently lost your job; what do you do about filing for employment? Everyone keeps telling you that if you are laid off or, in some cases fired, you do have the right to file an unemployment claim. Keep in mind, however, that if you were fired for misconduct at work or quit for a job-related or medical reason you might not be eligible.

Things You'll Need

• Valid Colorado driver’s license or a valid Colorado ID card
• U.S. military ID card or a military dependent ID card
• U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner card
• Native American tribal document
• Last employer's business name and address
• Date (month, day and year) you began working for your last employer
• Last date you performed work for your last employer
• If you worked this week, including Sunday, the number of hours worked and pay rate for this period
• Information Related to Normal Wage

Instructions

1. Go online to COWorkforce.com to begin the application filing process. The money for unemployment insurance benefits comes from the taxes that your employer pays to the state and federal governments; under the right circumstances, you are eligible to receive it. When you get to that site, there will be an overview explaining how to complete the form. You can either choose to file online or file by phone by calling 303-318-9000 in the Denver-metro area or 1-800-388-5515 outside the area. It is preferred that workers file their claim online if possible. Telephone and online are the only two ways to file an unemployment claim in Colorado.

2. Click “File a Claim” to begin the process.

3. Hit the Proceed button after you have read the page “Welcome to the UI Initial Claims Online Application.”

4. Gather all the information that is listed at the page called “Colorado Internet Claims Filing System.” When you have this information gathered, click the button that reads “I have all the information needed," then “Click here to begin filing your claim.”

5. Complete your application and click "Proceed." The application process should take you about 30 minutes. You will receive a confirmation that your claim for UI benefits was submitted and an explanation of your benefits rights and responsibilities. Click Continue to certify that you have read the information and to receive additional information. You will receive your check within two weeks, unless you are not eligible. At that point, you will also be notified as to why you are not eligible.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure and print the page with your unemployment claim information listed.

• If you have any questions, call the Customer Service number for more information at 303-318-9000 or 1-800-388-5515.

• Wait at least two weeks before contacting anyone if you do not receive your unemployment check. Sometimes it takes that long for processing.

• Remember, the first week you are eligible for benefits is an unpaid waiting week, so plan accordingly.

Resources

• Colorado Unemployment