Apply for unemployment benefits as a non-citizen

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you need to prove you are authorized to work in the U.S. to apply for unemployment benefits.

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What you need to apply

If you are legally authorized to work in the U.S. and you recently lost your job through no fault of your own, you can apply for unemployment insurance benefits.

You will need to provide your Social Security Number (SSN) to apply. DUA may ask for additional proof that you can work in the U.S., for example an A-Number or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

DUA can't approve unemployment benefits without this information.

How to apply

You can apply for unemployment insurance online or over the phone. Interpretation services are available.

What happens after you apply

After you submit your application, DUA will verify your work authorization with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This is required by law.

If you are eligible to work in the U.S. and meet all other eligibility requirements, you may start receiving unemployment benefits.

Learn more about the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program

SAVE is software from USCIS that Massachusetts uses to verify work authorization for non-citizens.

Contact

Phone

Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

To request weekly benefits, daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m.

To check your claim or benefit payment status

Select or reset your 4-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN)

Set up, change, or cancel direct deposit

Address

Boston Re-Employment Center (by appointment only)
2 Avenue de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111

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