Work and business
Who handles applying for unemployment benefits?
Who handles it
Your state’s unemployment insurance program handles claims and pays benefits.
- Not Federal
- State
- Not Local
Facts checked November 5, 2026 · 1 sources
Why state government
There is no federal unemployment program. Each state runs its own program and sets its own eligibility rules.
What to do next
- File in the state where you worked, which in most cases is the right place even if you live elsewhere.
- Check your state’s eligibility rules. You may be able to file online or by phone.
- If you worked remotely or outside your home state, ask your home state’s unemployment office for help filing.
In your state
Find your state’s official offices on our state pages.
What varies
States set their own rules, such as how much you must have earned and how long you must have worked.
Learn the background: How does state government work?
Sources
Official recordUSAGov: Unemployment benefits