Losing a job is frightening but Illinois offers unemployment benefits to those who have lost their job.During the first week you become unemployed, you can apply online, by phone or at an office.You must recertify your eligibility for benefits every two weeks, up to a maximum of 26 weeks.
Step 1: If you are eligible, check it.
Unemployment benefits aren't always available to all unemployed workers in Illinois.You're unemployed through no fault of your own, so check that you meet the following requirements.This means you were laid off for economic reasons.You did not quit and you were not fired.If you quit because of sexual harassment, domestic violence, or another reason, you might qualify.In your base year, you were paid at least $1,600.If you check your pay for the past five quarters, you should only count wages paid in the first four quarters.January 1-March 31, April 1-June 30, July 1-September 30, and October 1-December 31 are the quarters.You were paid more than one quarter.In a different quarter, $440 must have been paid.
Step 2: Required information needs to be gathered.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security requires certain information from you.You should collect this information before the event: your Social Security Number.You have a driver's license or state ID.Dates of employment and reasons for separation are included in the contact information for job you've worked for the past 18 months.Wage records include W-2 or pay stubs.You are filing for benefits if you earned any during the week.If you aren't a citizen, you have an alien registration number.
Step 3: If you want to, apply online.
The preferred method of applying is online.IDES has a website.You will need to create a password and a usernames here.Provide the requested information.
Step 4: It is possible to file by phone.
You can file for unemployment benefits by calling the IDES.Monday through Friday, call between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm.People who are hearing impaired should call.
Step 5: You can file at an office.
You can file at any IDES office.Take your Social Security card and a second form of ID, such as a driver's license or state ID card.You can find your nearest IDES office here.You can enter your zip code.
Step 6: You can choose your payment method.
Direct deposit or a card can be used to receive your benefits.The benefit amount will be deposited within two business days if you choose direct deposit.Unless you choose direct deposit, you'll receive the default option of a debit card.Benefits will be loaded after two business days after the card is mailed to you.If you lose your card, call KeyBank Customer Service.
Step 7: You must register with the employment service.
It is necessary for most applicants to register.When you apply, you may be asked to visit www.IllinoisJobLink.com and submit at least one resume.If it's easier for you, you can register at an IDES office.
Step 8: If necessary, take part in an interview.
You might be required to have a telephone interview.You can fill out a questionnaire and mail it back in.Only a few people will be called into the office for an interview.If your employer protests your application for unemployment benefits, you will have to interview.
Step 9: You can receive your finding.
After your claim has been filed, IDES will send you this information.To make sure the information is correct, review it and contact IDES.The certification date should be on the form.The wages were broken out by quarter.Your benefits begin and end on those dates.How much do you get in weekly benefits?Your maximum benefit balance.
Step 10: You should check the day that you should certify.
Certifying is when you request benefits.You will get a call day for certifying benefits after you apply.Contact IDES if you don't get this information.
Step 11: Provide proof of your benefits.
You have to certify every two weeks.You can either certify online or through Tele-Serve.You can certify online at this website: http://www.ides.illinois.gov/pages/Certify_Weekly_Benefits.You can sign in using your usernames and passwords.You can get certification Monday through Friday from 5 am to 7:30 pm.You can reach Tele-Serve by calling.
Step 12: Look for work.
You need to be available for work to keep receiving benefits.IDES might reach out to you and ask where you've been looking for a job.You should keep detailed records of where and when you apply.You want it handy in case you do, but not everyone is required to submit this information.