Starting Your UI Claim
To apply for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, you must be:
- Unemployed or working less than full-time,
- ready and looking for work, and
- have worked in the last 18 months.
How to Apply for UI
Apply immediately for UI benefits when your job has ended or when your employer has cut back your hours.
Video: How to apply for Unemployment
Video: Cómo Solicitar Los Beneficios del Seguro del Desempleo
- Information you need to apply for UI
Have this critical information immediately available, regardless of which option you select to apply for UI benefits.- How to Apply for UI Tip Sheet: English | Spanish | Chinese | Vietnamese (PDF)
- Ways to File
File online, by telephone, or by mail or fax. - Filing a Claim
Self-Service Options
- Apply for UI or Re-open a UI Claim Online
- Certify for UI Benefits Online
- Certify for UI Benefits by Phone
- Access UI Payment Information by Phone
- Forms and Publications
- More Help for the Unemployed
Top Links This Month
- EDD Web-CertSM
- UI Telephone Numbers
- Filing a Claim
- Managing Your UI Benefits
- Apply for UI Benefits Info
- Eligibility


FAQs