Links to the various state unemployment online sites for filing are listed here.

TIP: You might find out that some state online processes may not be as efficient as filing either in person or by phone. And, you need to be VERY careful about how youcomplete the information online or it could stall your application. Some of the correct responses are not so obvious.

Before you go to the State Sites, you should review our Tips on Filing.

Here are some of the Frequently Asked Questions and answers about Unemployment Insurance benefits.  If you've just been "laid off" you may find this helpful.

• QUESTION: Can I file for unemployment benefits?

ANSWER: There are essentially two qualifications you must meet in order to collect unemployment benefits.

First, you must have been "gainfully employed" for a minimum required period of time.  This is referred to as the "base period."  Most states define this "base period" as four calendar quarters out of the past five prior to filing a claim for unemployment benefits.

Secondly, your job loss can't be your fault.  If you were laid off due to lack of work or "downsizing" by your employer, you generally will qualify. However, if you were fired for misconduct or you voluntarily resigned, you may not be able to collect.

• QUESTION: Where do I file?

ANSWER: You generally file in the state in which you worked and where your employer paid your taxes.

If you pay state income taxes, the state in which you file will usually coincide with the state in which you file your income taxes.

If you lost your job due to Layoff, re-organization, downsizing or whatever your employer called it, chances are that you are qualified to receive Unemployment Benefits.  If you quit your job, chances are good that you do not qualify to receive benefits.

Not One Place to File

Unfortunately, the states control the distribution of benefits.  And, each state's process is at least a little different than all the others.  So, there is not just ONE online site where you can visit to apply for benefits.  There are at least 51 - counting the District of Columbia and the states.  There may also be separate sites for U.S. possessions  or territories like Puerto Rico.

You can also generally apply for benefits by appearing in person at one of your State's Unemployment offices and some states may permit you to file by phone.

General Rule

Before you file, find out the options in your state.  And, see the Menu item (below) about WHERE to file.  The question of WHERE (i.e., in which state) is critical so you don't waste time filing in the wrong state.

If you have the opportunity, check with others in your state who have already applied and they may be able to give you some tips.

Follow-up

We'll deal with this separately.  But, for now, keep in mind that the process does not stop simply because you've filed a request for Unemployment Benefits.