How Can I Apply For Unemployment Benefits?

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How Can I Apply For Unemployment Benefits?

You may file an initial claim for unemployment insurance benefits using one of four methods:

Online CLICK HERE
By visiting the nearest Workforce Development Center and participating in an initialclaim group session;
By calling the Unemployment Insurance Service Center at (877) 8915344 (tollfree outside the Des Moines area) or 2814199 (in the Des Moines calling area), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Central Standard Time.; or
Through your most recent employer.

When you file your initial claim, you'll need to have the following information handy:

Your Social Security number;
The name, address and telephone number of your most recent employer, and the beginning and ending dates you worked for that employer;
An Alien Registration number, if you are not a U.S. citizen;
A DD214 (Member 4), if you served in the U.S. military during the last 18 months;
An SF8 form, if you worked for the federal government in the last 18 months;
The name(s) of anyone you will be claiming as a dependent, up to a maximum of four; and
The amount your spouse earned in the preceding week, if you want to claim your spouse as a dependent (must be $120 or less to be claimed).

Other Iowa Labor and Employment FAQs

Q: What Happens After I File My Initial Claim For Unemployment Benefits?
A: After you file your claim, you will be mailed a form called the Monetary Record. This form will show: The beginning date of your claim. Your fourquarter base … More
Q: How Do I Claim Weekly Benefits?
A: Each week you are unemployed and want to claim benefit payments, you must certify that you: are unemployed or working reduced hours; are able and available for work; … More
Q: How Much Can I Receive In Unemployment Benefits?
A: Your weekly benefit amount is determined by your gross wages from all covered employers in the high quarter of your base period. The base period is the first four of … More
Q: Can I Receive Benefits If I Work Part Time?
A: If you work while claiming benefits, you can earn up to 25 percent of your weekly benefit amount before any deduction is made from your benefit payments. All earnings … More
Q: Can I Receive Benefits If I Attend School?
A: You may receive benefits if you are attending school or a training course approved by Iowa Workforce Development. You must make a written application for Department … More
Q: Are Unemployment Benefits Taxable?
A: All unemployment insurance benefits are fully taxable on your federal and state income taxes. You have the option of having federal and/or state taxes withheld from … More
Q: What Can I Do If I Disagree With A Denial Of Benefits?
A: If you or the employer disagrees with a decision, either party has the right to appeal and present testimony to an administrative law judge. The appeal must be … More
Q: What Can I Do If I Disagree With The Administrative Law Judges Decision?
A: If you or the employer disagrees with the administrative law judge's decision, it may be appealed to the Employment Appeal Board. The appeal must be postmarked within … More
Q: Who Are Liable Employers?
A: A liable employer is an employing unit that is required to report wages and pay unemployment insurance taxes to the Unemployment Insurance Division. To view the … More
Q: How Do I Apply For An Iowa Unemployment Account?
A: Complete and submit Report to Determine Liability (Application for Account). If you have questions about completing this form which the instructions do not answer, … More