How can I get information on the status of my unemployment benefits claim?
You can obtain this information through the Voice Response System (1-800-897-5630). Listen to the menu, and select “Claims and Benefits” (option 1), and enter your Social Security number and PIN.
How much in unemployment benefits do I get and for how long?
See full answerYour monetary determination will show the Amount and Duration of Benefits you are entitled to based on your base period wages. Your Weekly Benefit Amount is determined by the two quarters with the highest earnings during the base period. Total wages reported during the base period determine your maximum benefit amount. Once your claim is established and reflects all earnings during your base period, the amount you qualify for remains the same for one year and is available to you until your maximum benefit amount or your benefit year is exhausted, whichever comes first.Currently the maximum weekly benefit amount is $378 and the minimum is $60. Individuals must have earned at least $18,900.01 in two quarters during the base period to qualify for the maximum weekly benefit amount. Benefit duration varies from 12 to 26 weeks, also depending on wages earned in the base period.
What I do if there is a question on my weekly unemployment benefits eligibility?
You will be notified to report to or call the VEC Workforce Center for an interview. If you are held ineligible for benefits, you will receive a Notice of Deputy’s Determination explaining why. If you disagree with the determination, you must file your appeal by the date shown on the notice. Refer to the section “Appeals Frequently Asked Questions” for additional information. It is very important that you continue to actively seek work and file your weekly claims on time while the appeal is pending. Failure to do so may result in a denial of benefits.
Will I still get unemployment benefits if wages are correct but insufficient to qualify under the alternate base period?
If you worked only during the last six months or so, you may qualify monetarily after the quarter changes and should file another claim next April, July, October, or January as appropriate, if you are still unemployed.