Unemployment insurance
Unemployment insurance is run by the states: each state administers a separate program, and all states follow guidelines set by federal law.[1]
Who it is for
Each state sets its own eligibility rules, but you usually qualify if you are unemployed through no fault of your own and meet the state's work and wage requirements.[1]
How to apply
File a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. Depending on the state, you may file in person, by phone or online. The U.S. Department of Labor links to a state-by-state finder on CareerOneStop, which the Department sponsors.[1][2]
- CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor): find your state's unemployment benefits
- U.S. Department of Labor: Unemployment insurance
These links go to the official website. You cannot apply on this site.
Watch for fake sites
USA.gov warns that people have filed claims on fraudulent websites instead of their state unemployment office. Make sure you are on your state's official site.[3]
Sources
Each source was checked on 2026-10-05. Rules and amounts change; the official page is the one to rely on.