Unemployment Benefits
Unemployment Benefits
The support you need, when you need it most.
Unemployment Benefits
The support you need, when you need it most.
Losing your job or having your hours reduced can be difficult. Unemployment benefits are here to help support you and your family while you find a new job and develop your career.
You can apply now if you have your information ready.
Apply Now
Otherwise, go to
Step 1
and get your information in order.
What are Unemployment Benefits?
Unemployment benefits are temporary income for eligible workers who lost their job (or had hours reduced) through no fault of their own. You get from $40 to $450 each week, depending on how much you earned in the past 18 months. Our
Unemployment Benefit Calculator
helps estimate your benefit amount. It takes about three weeks to process your benefit application and make the first payment. To avoid confusion, please carefully read all emails and mail communications we send you. Contact us to fix any errors right away.
You may also be able to attend school or training while receiving unemployment benefits. Learn more about
California Training Benefits
Am I Eligible?
To receive benefits, you must meet
all
of the following
requirements
Have a Social Security number.
Have authorization to work in the United States (if not a US citizen).
Have earned enough wages during
a specific period of time based on your earnings over the past 18 months
This is called
the
base period.
See
How Unemployment Insurance Benefits Are Computed
(DE8714AB) (PDF)
Totally or partially unemployed.
Unemployed through no fault of your own.
Physically able to work.
Available for work.
Looking for work each week.
Ready and willing to accept work right away.
If you are unsure if you are eligible to receive unemployment benefits, apply. We will let you know if you meet eligibility requirements. Learn more about
how we determine eligibility
Even if you quit, were fired, or were
incorrectly classified by your employer
as an independent contractor, you may still qualify for benefits. There is no penalty for applying even if we determine you are not eligible.
Step 1: Get Your Information in Order
Step 2: Apply
Step 3: Register in CalJOBS
Step 4: Review Benefit Documents
Step 5: Certify for Benefits
Step 6: Receive Your First Payment
Step 7: Continue to Certify
Step 8: End Your Benefits
Other State Programs
You may qualify for
other State programs
to help cover food, housing, and healthcare expenses.
Unemployment Resources
How-To Videos
Quick Links
Determinations and Eligibility
Appeals
Overpayments and Penalties
How to Reopen an Existing Claim
How to Report School or Training
Tax Form 1099G
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