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As of July 8, 2026, IDES will no longer send benefit payments via paper check. You may select direct deposit or debit card as your method for receiving benefit payments. If you were receiving paper checks, you will be switched over to debit card payments unless you choose to enroll in direct deposit.

Unemployment Insurance Benefit Handbook

Printable Version

Table of Contents

Where to find IDES Services
Protect Your Benefits
Unemployment Insurance Benefits
Insured Work
Uninsured Work

Eligibility

Are You Eligible for Benefits?
General Eligibility
Weekly Eligibility
Disqualifications

When and Where to File

Information Needed to File for Benefits
Claiming Children as Dependents
Claiming a Spouse as a Dependent
What Happens When You File Your New Claim for Benefits?
Benefits Paid for Weeks
Receiving Payments via Paper Check or Direct Deposit

Work Search and Availibility

What “Able to and Available for Work” Means
Actively Looking for Work

Certify for Benefits

Certify for Benefits
Scheduled Appointments

Important to Know

If You Are Unable to Work
If You Move
When You Return to Work
If You Are Overpaid
False or Misleading Information
If Your Claim Is Contested

If Your Claim Is Denied at Any Time – Your Appeal Rights
What Happens to Your Appeal?
Employer Appeal Rights

Benefit Determination

How Your Benefits Are Determined
Your Base Period
Total Weekly Benefits
Total Yearly Benefits
Partial Benefits–Part-Time Work
Figuring Partial Benefits

Unique Circumstances

Interstate Benefits
Combined Wage Claim
United States Government Employees
U.S. Military Veterans
Trade Assistance Benefits

Report Your Return to Work IMMEDIATELY!
Final Tips for Filing
Benefits May Be Taxable
Your Social Security Number Is Required
Nondiscrimination