Illinois Unemployment

Illinois Unemployment Insurance Benefits

Illinois unemployment insurance benefits constitute a state-operated unemployment insurance program designed to partially replace lost wages when an Illinois resident loses employment through no fault of their own. 

Like other types of insurance, the program exists to activate during an emergency – when workers are temporarily or permanently out of a job, or if labor hours are dramatically reduced because of a lack of work.

The program can help guarantee that, as long as a claimant continues to meet eligibility requirements as outlined in Illinois law, that worker will have some level of income while he or she looks for a new job.

Illinois Unemployment Services

How To Qualify for Illinois Unemployment Benefits

As specified by Illinois law, unemployed workers who meet the following eligibility requirements may receive UI benefits:

• You are unemployed through no fault of their own
• You paid a minimum level of wages during the base period for review as outlined by Illinois law
• You are willing, available and able to work, as evidenced by being registered for work with the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES)

Benefit Payments and Duration

How Do I Apply for Illinois Unemployment Benefits?

It’s important to submit your initial claim for unemployment insurance benefits immediately after losing your job or having work hours significantly reduced.

The easiest way to submit your UI benefits claim is online or at an IDES office. If you aren’t sure whether you meet eligibility requirements, it’s a good idea to call IDES Claimant Services at 800-244-5631 and speak to a representative.

Please note that part of the initial claim process is registering with the Illinois Employment Service system at illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov. You also may register at an IDES office.

Managing Your Unemployment Benefits

One of the key elements of managing your regular unemployment benefits is your bi-weekly certification. Certifying is a process you will complete for the first time two weeks after you have filed your initial claim. To continue receiving unemployment compensation, you must certify that you are available and actively seeking work. In addition, you will need to report any income earned during the two-week benefit period.

During the process, you will answer basic questions about your employment status. The best way to do so is online. You may submit weekly certification online Monday through Friday, from 3 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

You also may file your unemployment claim by telephone using Tele-Serve.

How Do I Appeal a Decision?

If you disagree with a decision regarding your claim, you have the option to request an appeal. You will receive an official notice of your decision, which will outline the specific steps you should take to request an appeal, including the mailing address and fax number for submitting your written request for appeal.

Illinois law stipulates that you must file your appeal within 30 days of the mailing date on your decision notice.

Reporting Fraud

Unemployment fraud, including identity theft, is a significant crime that lessens the integrity of Illinois’ unemployment insurance benefits program and diverts resources from Illinois workers who need them. 

Whether it constitutes providing false information, stealing another’s identity, or failing to report income, a fraudulent claim for unemployment insurance is taken seriously in Illinois. You are strongly encouraged to make a report if you suspect someone of fraudulently collecting unemployment assistance.

Illinois Unemployment Office Locations