Things You'll Need:
- Information on your most recent job
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Step 1
Go to the unemployment office closest to your residence, immediately after job separation or layoff. In some cases, you may be able to apply for federal unemployment over the phone or online. Many states provide an online website for claimants to apply for federal unemployment.
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Step 2
Provide information from your most recent employment. Your most recent employer is whom the state checks with to verify the circumstances behind your job separation. As long as you weren't terminated for good reason or you voluntarily quit your position, your claim will probably be approved. Provide the dates of service with your most recent employer. You'll be asked about your salary and your current residence and for your Social Security number and contact information.
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Step 3
Fill out a resume online or upload an existing resume. If you're meeting with a representative at your local unemployment office, bring a copy of your resume with you. Your unemployment agency wants to make sure that you're actively seeking employment. If you don't have a resume, create one as soon as possible.
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Step 4
List the jobs that you've contacted for employment on a week-by-week basis. Most states require that you apply to at least three separate jobs a week. If you're not actively seeking employment, you may not qualify for the maximum allowable benefit.
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Step 5
File your weekly claim, assuming you're approved for federal unemployment. It takes one to two weeks for your eligibility to be determined. You'll be informed of your weekly payment, and you'll have the option to order a debit card and have taxes taken from your federal unemployment benefits. Your federal unemployment payment is issued every week for 26 weeks. In certain states, such as Illinois, if you haven't found employment in 26 weeks, you may file for an extension of unemployment benefits. This extension may last for an additional 13 weeks. You need to file a claim every week to receive unemployment. To file your claim, answer questions about your current job search, such as where you applied and dates, and whether there's a change in your schooling status. Be prepared to provide your updated contact information if you've changed your address or phone number.
