How long does it take to process unemployment application

Frequently asked questions about the process to apply for unemployment benefits the first time or if you've filed before.

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How long does unemployment take in Nevada?
How long does it take to get unemployment in Colorado?
How long does it take to get unemployment in Alabama?
How long does unemployment take to process in CT?

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When should I apply?

Apply for unemployment benefits online when:

You are totally unemployed,
You are partially unemployed (your weekly earnings are reduced), or
You expect to be laid off within the next 13 weeks and would like to start your benefit year early.

All claims based on work done in Wisconsin are filed through Wisconsin, even if you now live in another state.

Important: To avoid any loss of benefits, apply the first week you are unemployed. Do not wait until the week is over. Wisconsin has a waiting week for unemployment benefits. For every new benefit year, no benefits are payable for the first week you would otherwise be eligible for benefits. However, a claim still must be filed to fulfill the waiting week requirement.

Will my name change affect how I apply?

Individuals applying for unemployment must do so using the name printed on their social security card and driver's license. If your social security card and driver's license are up to date with your current name you should not have any problems filing for and receiving unemployment benefits.

If you have received unemployment benefits in the past under a different name and wish to apply for benefits again, you must first change you name with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and with the Social Security Administration (SSA) before applying for unemployment benefits.

Please understand that we must be able to confirm your identity with personally identifiable information such as your driver's license and social security card to approve your unemployment application.

Is the application process different for returning military veterans?

The application process for military service veterans coming off active duty is the same as anyone applying for unemployment benefits. Your claim cannot start earlier than the week of your separation date, as it appears on your DD-214.

A request for your member copy 4 of the DD-214, for all active duty terms within the last 18 months, will be sent to you after you file.

Your claim may be delayed if you are unable to send in a copy of the DD-214 (acceptable copies are member copy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8).

The worksheet and copy 1 cannot be used because they do not include the separation type or narrative reason of separation.

Additional resources are available from the Office of Veteran Employment Services.

Is there anything else I must do to receive an unemployment payment?

Filing for unemployment benefits is a two step process:

First, you must complete the initial claim application which leads to a computation of whether you monetarily qualify for benefits. NOTE: this alone does not send out payments.
Second, you must file a weekly claim certification for each week you want an unemployment benefit payment.
The weekly claim certification triggers the payment for each week. Always wait until after Saturday to file a weekly claim certification for the calendar week ending that Saturday

Requests for additional information have a due date:

In some circumstances, we may need additional information from you. Please respond to any requests for additional information by the due date stated on the request.

Have you been instructed to register with Wisconsin Job Service?

No unemployment benefits will be paid to you until you register with Wisconsin Job Service.

Actual payment is dependent upon approval:

Even if you have been paid enough wages from covered employment to qualify monetarily for benefits, actual payment will be dependent upon approval of all eligibility issues.

When will I receive my first payment?

We will generally determine your entitlement within 7 days of filing your initial claim. If benefits are payable, they are usually paid within 7 days of completing your weekly claim.

The last time I filed, I received a determination that denied/suspended benefits, what do I need to do?

Any time benefits are denied or suspended, we send you a determination explaining:

why
for what time period
how to requalify
how to appeal if you disagree

If you have met the requalifying requirements, and have stopped filing weekly claim certifications and are again unemployed or working reduced hours, you must reactivate your claim.

A review of your claim will be done to establish that you have met the requalifying requirements. You may be sent requests for information to establish that you have met the requalifying requirements. Complete the requests and return by the due date.

If you have questions regarding your requalifying requirements, contact a claims specialist.

How long does unemployment take in Nevada?

Benefit payment information is available using the Claimant Self Service (CSS) portal at UI.NV.gov or using the automated telephone system. You will typically receive payment for an eligible week within two business days of filing your weekly claim.

How long does it take to get unemployment in Colorado?

The initial processing time for a claim takes four to six weeks; then if it is determined you qualify to receive payment, you are paid every two weeks from a fund paid by employers. The first payment you may receive is postponed by one week's worth of payment, called the waiting week.

How long does it take to get unemployment in Alabama?

It usually takes two or three (2-3) weeks following the week you filed your claim to receive your first benefit payment, provided that you have followed all instructions, filed your weekly certifications as instructed, and have met all eligibility requirements.

How long does unemployment take to process in CT?

After your hearing: The referee will mail you the decision in about two to four weeks. If you lose, you will not be able to get unemployment until you get another job and earn enough money to be eligible. This normally takes about 5 weeks. If you lose, you can appeal to the Board of Review.