Frequent Questions On Illinois Unemployment Benefits

How do I qualify for Unemployment Benefits in IL?

• You must have earned enough money in the past 18 months for the state of Illinois to establish your weekly benefit amount.
• You must have an acceptable reason for your work separation.

What do I need to do to get unemployment Benefits in IL

• You must report your reason for your separation from your job when you file your claim for benefits.
• You must Report any wages earned and list all your employers from the last 18 months.
• You must be available for work each week or you may loose your benefits.
• You must be actively searching for work each week or benefits may be denied.
• You must develop report your work search each week as required by law
• You can use Use IllinoisJobLink.com to search for a jobs
• You must quick report your return to work as soon as possible to avoid committing fraud.

What information do I need to file my claim for UI Benefits in IL?

• Your Social Security number
• Your Driver’s License or State ID
• Your employment history from the past 18 months
• Your dependent’s name, social security number and date of birth

How Do I File For Unemployment Benefits in Illinois?

• To apply for IL unemployment insurance benefits you need to visit the Illinois department of insurance security website and file your claim.

Can I file an appeal if I am denied unemployment benefits in IL?

• YES! If your claim for UI Benefits is denied you can file an appeal with the Illinois Department Of Employment Security.

Chicago Office:   IDES Appeals Division 33 S State St, 8th Floor Chicago, IL 60603-2802

Springfield Office:   IDES Appeals Division 607 East Adams, 8th Floor Springfield, IL 62701​

How do I look for work while on Illinois unemployment Insurance benefits?

• You can use the job search tool on IllinoisJobLink.com website to search for jobs.
• You are required to register with IllinoisJobLink.com while receiving unemployment benefits.

What income do I have to report when certifying weekly for IL unemployment Insurance benefits?

• You must report the total amount of all income before taxes.
• You need to notify the IDES as soon as you begin working.

What is the Maximum amount of Unemployment Benefits I can get in IL?

• The maximum amount of weekly unemployment benefit you can receive is $742.00 if you have children.
• Your weekly UI benefit amount is determined by;
  Adding the amount of the two highest earning quarters from a base period;
  Taking 47% of the total received from adding the two highest earning quarters; and
  Dividing the result by 26.
• You may receive unemployment benefits for a total of 26 weeks.