Eligibility
Am I eligible for benefits?
You may be eligible for benefits if you lost your job or your hours were reduced through no fault of your own.
If you aren’t sure if you’re eligible, you should apply anyway.
Learn more about unemployment eligibility
What if I live in Massachusetts but worked in another state?
If you live in Massachusetts but worked for an employer located in another state, you must file your claim in the state where your employer is located.
Can I work part-time while receiving unemployment benefits?
Yes, but you must report this income when you file your weekly claim for benefits.
Learn more about working while receiving benefits
How much will I get paid?
Your benefits are based on your wages over the last year.
How to estimate your unemployment benefits
Why was my application denied?
There are a few reasons why your application for benefits may be denied:
- Some types of income can’t be used to establish an unemployment claim
- If you quit your job without good cause
- If your employer reports that you were fired for misconduct or violating company policy
If you disagree with an unemployment determination, you can file an appeal.
What is RESEA?
Federal guidelines require states to randomly select unemployment claimants for participation in the Re-Employment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program. If you are selected, you must participate to collect benefits.
Applying for benefits
How do I apply?
You can apply for unemployment insurance as soon as you lose your job or your hours are reduced. You can apply online or over the phone.
Learn how to apply for unemployment insurance
How do I upload documents?
If you need to upload documents when applying for benefits, follow the instructions in the online application. Documents can be uploaded from a phone or computer.
Sometimes, DUA will request additional documents after you apply. You can respond to those requests online.
Can I track the status of my application?
Yes. Log in to Unemployment Services for Workers to check for updates on your application for benefits.
How to check your unemployment claim status
How long does it take to process an application?
Every application is unique, so processing times can vary. Most applications are processed in about 4 weeks.
During that time:
- Your employer needs to verify your employment and wage history. They have 10 business days (two weeks) to do this.
- You may need to respond to a request for more information about your claim from DUA. You can do this online in your Unemployment Services account.
- You need to start filing a weekly claim for benefits. If you do not do this, your benefits may be delayed or stopped.
Learn more about what to expect after you apply
Where can I get help with my claim?
You can get help over the phone or in person:
- Phone: Call (877) 626-3600, Monday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- In-person: Make an appointment with DUA
Where can I get help with my online account?
Depending on what you need help with, MyMassGov or DUA can help you access or update your Unemployment Services for Workers account.
Learn more about logging into Unemployment Services with MyMassGov
Weekly claims and work search activities
How do I file my weekly claim for benefits?
You can file your weekly claim for benefits online or over the phone. You need to file a claim each week that you need benefits, starting the week after you apply for benefits.
When should I file my weekly claim for benefits?
You can file your weekly claim for the previous week when the new week begins on Sunday. You can file anytime that week, Sunday through Saturday, and for up to three weeks after that, but it is best practice to request benefits as soon as possible.
What if I forget to file my weekly claim?
You can file your weekly claim for the previous week anytime during the new week, Sunday through Saturday. If you don’t file by Saturday, you have up to 21 days to file a claim for the week you missed. If you do not file a weekly claim for 3 weeks in a row, your unemployment claim will be closed. You can re-open it if you still need benefits.
Do I need to report work search activities each week?
Yes, you need to report at least 3 work search activities each week when you file your claim for benefits. If you don’t complete 3 work search activities, you won’t be eligible for benefits that week.
The only time you don’t need to report work search activities is if you are participating in a training program that’s approved by DUA.
Do I still need to use the paper work search log?
No. DUA used to require a paper work search log each week, but it’s not required anymore. All work search activities can be reported online in your Unemployment Services for Workers account. You can’t upload a paper work search log in your online account.
If you file your weekly claim over the phone, you may want to keep a written record of your work search activities in case DUA requests it.
Learn more about how to file your weekly unemployment claim
How long does it take to receive benefits after I file my weekly claim?
If your application for benefits is approved, payments are usually issued two business days after you file your weekly claim, which includes submitting your work search activities.
Benefits and payments
What is the maximum benefit amount?
In Massachusetts, the current maximum weekly benefit amount is $1,105 for up to 30 weeks. Your actual benefits are based on your wages over the last year.
How to estimate your unemployment benefits
What if my benefits run out?
Right now, there aren’t any benefit extension programs available. If your benefits are ending, mass211.org can help connect you to local resources for housing, food, and other assistance programs.
What is a waiting week?
The first week that you file a weekly claim for benefits is a waiting week. You will not get paid for that week. Your first payment will be for the second week you claim benefits.
Determinations and delays
What if my application has been “pending” for several weeks?
Some applications take longer to process while DUA confirms eligibility or gathers additional information. While your application is in review, you should continue to file your weekly claim for benefits.
Common reasons your application may be pending:
- DUA is waiting on information from your former employer(s)
- DUA is verifying your identity or work history
- DUA is reviewing additional documents you submitted
- DUA is working to resolve an eligibility issue or appeal
To help reduce processing delays, starting in August 2025, the DUA Call Center will not answer calls on Fridays to focus on processing applications.
I got a Notice of Monetary Determination, does that mean my claim was approved?
No. This letter shows an estimate of how much money you may be able to receive, based on your wage history over the last 15 months.
Learn more about how your benefit amount is determined
Learn more about what to expect after you apply
Can I appeal a decision about my claim?
Yes, you can appeal a decision about your unemployment claim.
Taxes
Do I need to pay taxes on unemployment benefits?
Yes. You are responsible for paying state and federal taxes on unemployment benefits you receive.
Learn more about paying taxes on unemployment income
When does DUA send 1099-G forms?
DUA sends 1099-G forms at the end of January for benefits paid the previous year.
Contact
Online
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