How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits in Maryland

Apply online for unemployment insurance benefits through the Maryland Department of Labor.

If you were previously employed in the state of Maryland and have lost your job through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits. Unemployment benefits offer eligible recipients cash payments of approximately half the previous gross weekly earnings up to a maximum of $410 per week. Qualifying beneficiaries must be available and physically able to work. To find out if you qualify for unemployment insurance, submit an application online through the Maryland Department of Labor immediately following job separation.

Things You'll Need

• Internet
• Applicant's social security number
• Employer address and phone
• Dependents' social security numbers and birth dates

Instructions

1. Access the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation website. Under Claimant Information, select "Apply for Unemployment Insurance Benefits."

2. Provide personal information as requested, such as your address, phone, social security number and information for any dependents (a child, stepchild or adopted child), including social security numbers and birth dates.

3. Furnish the business name, address and phone number of your previous employer. The employer will be contacted to verify your earnings and the reason for job separation. Provide employment information for all jobs worked within the last 18 months.

4. Create a four-digit personal identification number (PIN) and note selected PIN for future access to claim status and to file payment requests.

5. Register for work with the Maryland Workforce Exchange within four weeks of initial application.

6. Review any claim related documents received by mail from the Maryland Department of Labor for further instructions and requirements.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow at least one business day for claim information to update. Log in to view the claim status, payment request schedule and weekly work search requirements.

• If you do not have access to the Internet, the application process may be completed by phone. Regional claim phone information is listed on the Maryland Division of Workforce website.

References

• Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation: Division of Unemployment Insurance

Resources

• Maryland Workforce Exchange: Enrollment
• Division of Unemployment Insurance: Claim Center Telephone Numbers