You can usually apply for unemployment benefits online through your state's labor office website. Unemployment benefits (also known as unemployment insurance benefits) provide temporary assistance to people who are recently unemployed through no fault of their own; however, eligibility for and duration of benefits can vary by state.

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Click on your state's link below to apply for unemployment benefits online, and your state agency will determine whether or not you are eligible.  Note that some states do not allow you to apply for unemployment benefits online.  In those cases, you will find instructions for applying by mail, by telephone or in person. If you qualify for unemployment benefits, generally you will receive your first unemployment check two to three weeks after you apply.

To apply for unemployment benefits, you'll need to provide the following information:

• Your name, social security number, and state driver license or ID number
• Your residential and mailing address
• The last date you worked for your employer
• The name, address, and telephone number of your most recent employer

Some states may require more information, such as your citizenship status and prior income.  If you need a copy of your birth certificate for identification purposes or to prove citizenship, you can create a Request for Birth Certificate.  You can also request copies of your paystubs from your previous employer by using the Free-Form Letter.  

Select the state where you currently live in order to apply for unemployment benefits. Even if you worked in another state, your state can still help you file for unemployment benefits.

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Get started Visit our Tax Center Create tax documents and ask a lawyer your questions.

Get started Visit our Tax Center Create tax documents and ask a lawyer your questions.