Getting started with Unemployment Services for Workers
To file a claim online, you’ll need to create a personal MyMassGov account and link it to Unemployment Services. You need your own email account to access Unemployment Serivces. If you don’t have one, you can sign up for a free email account like Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook.
Filing an initial claim
Before you file a claim, verify that you’re eligible for unemployment insurance benefits, understand how your benefits are calculated, and learn what could affect your benefits.
Don't know if you qualify? You should still apply; there’s no penalty for applying. Fill out the online application and DUA will let you know.
Video: File an Initial Claim in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System
Skip this video File an Initial Claim in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System.Communicating with DUA
After you file your initial claim, you can track its status directly in Unemployment Services. Processing typically takes about 21 to 28 business days. If DUA needs more information from you, you’ll receive a message in your Unemployment Services inbox.
Video: Respond to Request in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System
Skip this video Respond to Request in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System.Completing weekly activities
While your claim is under review, you must continue to request weekly benefits and meet the work search requirement. As of May 6, 2025, you must report at least three work search activities each week when requesting benefits in Unemployment Services for Workers.
Video: File a Weekly Certification in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System
Skip this video File a Weekly Certification in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System.Video: Report Work Search Activities in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System
Skip this video Report Work Search Activities in the Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System.Video: Report Work Search Activities (Español) | Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System
Skip this video Report Work Search Activities (Español) | Massachusetts Unemployment Services for Workers System.Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I still access UI Online?
No. UI Online has officially retired. You’ll now use Unemployment Services for Workers to file a new claim or manage your existing one.
Q: I filed an initial claim using UI Online. How will I know if it was approved?
You’ll be notified based on your communication preference:
- Email: You’ll get a message that a new notice is available in your account.
- Mail: If you selected U.S. Mail, you’ll receive a letter.
If DUA needs more information, you can respond online or call (877) 626-6800
Q: I have an active claim. Was my information moved to the new system?
Yes. If your claim was active before May 2, 2025, your information has been transferred to Unemployment Services. You’ll see your claim history when you log in—available starting May 6, 2025.
Q: Do I need to update my direct deposit information?
No. Your payments will continue going to the same account unless you choose to make a change.
Q: What if I use a DUA-issued debit card?
Keep using your current debit card. No action is needed.
Q: How is it easier to check my claim status now?
Unemployment Services gives you real-time updates on your claim and payments. You can track weekly certifications, eligibility, and payment status more easily than before.
Claim Status
| What You May See | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Saved as Draft | You started filing a new claim but haven’t finished it. Submit it before Saturday of this week to avoid starting over. |
| Processing | Your application has been received and is under review. We’ll notify you if we need more information or when a decision is made. |
| Pending | Your application is being reviewed, but we need to verify your identity first. Check your messages for instructions and complete the steps right away. |
| Your Claim is Closed | If you don’t request weekly benefits for 3 weeks in a row, your claim closes automatically. To resume, log in and select “Reopen your claim.” |
Benefit Payment Status
| Status You May See | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Claim Closed | Your claim closed because you didn’t request benefits for 3 weeks in a row. Log in and choose “Reopen your claim” to continue. |
| Paid | Your benefit payment of $[Amount] was sent on [Date]. It should appear in your debit card or direct deposit account shortly. |
| Denied | You didn’t meet the requirements for benefits this week. If you disagree, log in and choose “File an appeal.” |
| Excess Earnings | You earned too much money this week to qualify for benefits. |
| Pending | We’re reviewing your claim for this week. You’ll receive a notification once we make a decision. |
| No Benefit | You’re either not eligible for benefits or have used all your benefits. You can appeal this decision in the portal. |
| Ready to Request Benefits | You must file your weekly certification to receive payment. Log in and choose “Request benefits.” |
| Not Filed – Claim Closed | Your claim closed because you didn’t request benefits. Choose “Reopen your claim” to continue. |
| Overpayment | You were paid benefits for this week, but later found ineligible. You must repay the funds or request a waiver. You can also file an appeal. |
| Payment in Progress | Your benefit payment is on the way. You should receive it within 2 business days. |
| Pending – Payment Returned | We tried to send your payment, but your bank returned it. Please update your direct deposit info by calling us at (877) 626-6800. |
| Penalty Week | You received benefits while working. As a penalty, you won’t receive benefits for the same number of weeks. Keep certifying each week. You may appeal. |
| Processing | Your weekly claim is being reviewed. We’ll notify you if more info is needed. |
| Payment Returned | Your benefit payment was returned by your bank and cannot be reissued. |
| Waiting Week | This is your one-time “Waiting Week.” No payment is issued per Massachusetts law for the first eligible week of a new claim. |
Eligibility Decision Status
| Status You May See | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Waiting for Response | Action required. We need more information to decide if you qualify for benefits. Log in and respond to the request in your account. |
| In Progress | We are reviewing your information. You’ll get a notification once we make a decision. |
| Determined Ineligible | We decided you do not meet the requirements to receive benefits. If you disagree, log in and choose “File an appeal.” |
| Determined Eligible | We decided you do meet the requirements. You’ll receive benefit payments each week you certify—if you continue to meet program requirements. |
| Monetarily Eligible | You earned enough to qualify for benefits. If you disagree with the benefit amount, log in and choose “File a wage correction.” |
| Monetarily Ineligible | You haven’t earned enough to qualify for benefits. If you believe this is incorrect, log in and choose “File a wage correction.” |
Q: What languages does Unemployment Services support?
The system is available in English and Spanish. You can also choose to receive mail in: Chinese, Haitian Creole, French, Italian, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Laotian, Khmer, Russian, Korean. You can update your language preference in your Unemployment Services profile.
Q: When will I receive payment after certifying for benefits?
If you're eligible and certify on time, payments are usually issued within 2 business days. See the chart below:
| Weekly certification filed on… | Benefit payment deposited on or after the following… |
|---|---|
| Saturday, Sunday, or Monday (before 6:00 PM) | Wednesday |
| Tuesday | Thursday |
| Wednesday | Friday |
| Thursday | Monday |
| Friday | Tuesday |
Q: Can I still file weekly claims by phone?
Yes. You can still request benefits by phone. When you call after May 6, 2025, you’ll need to:
- Set up a new PIN
- Answer your security question
Q: What happens to appeal hearings already scheduled in UI Online?
Your hearing will continue as scheduled. You’ll be able to view and manage it in the new system.
Q: Will fact-finding deadlines change during the transition?
Yes. For deadlines between May 1–14, 2025, DUA is giving an extra 10 days to respond. Check your online account for the updated due date.
Q: Will certification or appeal deadlines be extended?
DUA is monitoring the transition and may adjust deadlines to ensure a fair and smooth experience for everyone.