How to File for Unemployment on the Internet

Apply for unemployment benefits by filing with the state unemployment office online.

The unemployment benefit program is sponsored by the federal government to help people who have lost their jobs. Each state has its own unemployment office, and funds are allocated through those state offices to the people who qualify. To apply for unemployment benefits online, you first need to find the site for the state you were employed in. Once you have found the correct site, the process to apply for unemployment online is easy.

Instructions

1. Read the eligibility requirements (see Resources). Each person is different, and each job loss is a unique situation. Keep in mind that even if you seem to meet all of these eligibility requirements, your particular state might have different requirements that you will not be aware of until you begin the application process.

2. Use the service locator map (see Resources) to find the state website for your particular area. Some of the states on the service locator map will only have phone numbers and addresses listed for particular unemployment offices. If you still wish to file online, you can call the phone number listed and ask for a website. It is possible that some states will not have a website to file online or that some states might only allow certain types of filing online. If you are told you cannot file online in that state, you must do so by mail.

3. Go to the website for the particular state in which you live or the particular city website you have been directed to.

4. Select or search for "Unemployment Benefits" if the page you land on is not directly the unemployment site.

5. Choose "Apply for Benefits" or similar option to begin the application process online. For most states, you will give your name, address, phone number and Social Security number. Then you will give information about your last job and why you are no longer employed. Most states allow you to complete the entire application online.

Tips & Warnings

• For many states, you will submit the application and then wait for approval. Some states will call or write you with approval information. Other states will require you to meet with a social worker or state employee so they can explain your benefits and any particular state policies for continuing those benefits.

References

• File Unemployment: Unemployment Guide
• File Unemployment: File for Unemployment -- The Ultimate Guide
• California Employment Development Department: Overview -- Unemployment Insurance

Resources

• Career One Stop/U.S. Department of Labor: Service Locator Map
• File Unemployment: Unemployment Benefits Eligibility