Lost Your Job Before the School Year? Here Is How to File for Unemployment

Money you may already be owed

If you lost your job through no fault of your own, you may qualify for unemployment insurance. This is money that helps cover your bills while you look for work.

Unemployment insurance is a joint program run by the federal government and the states. Each state runs its own program, sets its own rules, and pays your benefits. The important thing to know right now is that filing is free. You never have to pay anyone to apply for you.

The timing matters. Many families feel the loss of a paycheck hardest at back-to-school season, when costs go up. Filing soon after you lose your job can help you get your first payment faster.

Before you file: gather your papers

Having your information ready is the best way to avoid delays. Set aside a folder before you start.

You will usually need your Social Security number, your driver's license or state ID, and your recent work history. That means the names, addresses, and phone numbers of your employers, plus the dates you started and stopped working.

If you were in the military or worked for the federal government, you may need extra forms about that service. Keep any pay stubs or your last paycheck handy too, since some states ask about your earnings.

Filing is free and done through your state

You file with the state where you worked, not with the federal government. Most states let you apply online, and many also take claims by phone.

After you apply, expect a waiting period before your first payment in some states. You will likely need to keep certifying each week that you are still unemployed and looking for work. Do not skip these check-ins, because missing them is one of the most common reasons payments stop.

Watch out for two other common mistakes: giving incomplete work history, and waiting too long to file. Both can slow down your first check.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost anything to file for unemployment?

No. Filing through your state's official program is free. You never need to pay a company or middleman to apply for you.

Which state do I file in if I moved?

You generally file with the state where you worked, not where you now live. Start at the U.S. Department of Labor page to find your state's program.

How fast will I get my first payment?

It depends on your state. Some states have a waiting period. Filing soon and giving complete information helps avoid delays.

What if I quit or was fired?

Rules vary by state. Benefits are generally for people who lost work through no fault of their own, but you can still apply and let your state decide your case.