Unemployment Benefits Calculator
How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits
Follow these steps to apply for unemployment benefits in Idaho. The process is designed to be straightforward and can be completed online.
Before you begin your application, collect the following documents and information:
- Social Security Number
- Driver's license or state ID
- Names and addresses of all employers for the last 18 months
- Employment dates and reasons for separation
- Gross earnings from each employer
- Alien registration number (if not a U.S. citizen)
You can file your claim online through the Idaho Department of Labor website or by phone. The online system is available 24/7, while phone services are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
Important: File as soon as possible after your last day of work, as benefits are not paid retroactively.
You must register with IdahoWorks, the state's job search system. This is required to maintain eligibility and helps match you with potential employers.
After your initial claim is approved, you must file weekly claims to continue receiving benefits. Weekly claims can be filed online or by phone and must be submitted for each week you wish to receive benefits.
You may be required to attend in-person or virtual appointments with workforce specialists. These appointments help with job search activities and ensure you're meeting eligibility requirements.
Important Dates & Deadlines
Stay informed about critical dates and deadlines to ensure you receive your benefits without interruption.
Filing Deadlines
File your initial claim within 7 days of your last day of work. Late applications may result in delayed or reduced benefits.
Weekly Claims: Must be filed between Sunday at 12:01 AM and Saturday at 11:59 PM for the previous week.
Waiting Period
There is typically a one-week waiting period before benefits begin. Your first eligible week of unemployment will not be paid.
Exception: No waiting period if you're participating in approved training programs.
Benefit Year
Your benefit year lasts 52 weeks from your effective claim date. You must establish a new claim after your benefit year expires if still unemployed.
Maximum Duration: Up to 26 weeks of benefits within your benefit year.
Reporting Requirements
Report any earnings, job offers, or changes in availability immediately when filing your weekly claim.
Deadline: All changes must be reported by Saturday at 11:59 PM for the current week.
Appeal Deadlines
If you disagree with a determination, you have 15 days from the mailing date of the decision to file an appeal.
Note: Continue filing weekly claims while your appeal is pending.
Tax Documents
Form 1099-G will be available by January 31st for the previous tax year, showing total benefits received and any taxes withheld.
Access: Available online through your IdahoWorks account.
Additional Support Services
Beyond unemployment benefits, Idaho offers various support services to help you during your job search and career transition.
Career Counseling
Free career counseling services including resume building, interview preparation, and career planning.
Training Programs
Vocational training and certification programs to enhance your skills and employability.
Digital Literacy
Computer skills training and access to technology for job searching and online applications.
Community Resources
Connect with local organizations that provide additional support during unemployment:
Food Assistance
- Idaho Food Bank: (208) 336-9643
- SNAP Benefits: (877) 456-1233
- Local Food Pantries
Housing Support
- Idaho Housing: (208) 331-4800
- Rental Assistance Programs
- Mortgage Relief Options
Healthcare
- Medicaid: (877) 456-1233
- Your Health Idaho: (855) 944-3246
- Community Health Centers
Mental Health & Wellness
Unemployment can be stressful. These resources are available to support your mental health:
Crisis Support
- Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline: (208) 398-4357
- National Crisis Line: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Counseling Services
- Optum Idaho: (855) 202-0973
- Community Mental Health Centers
- Employee Assistance Programs
Support Groups
- Job Seeker Support Groups
- Career Transition Groups
- Professional Networking Events
Eligibility Requirements
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- You must be unemployed through no fault of your own
- You must be physically able to work
- You must be available for suitable work
- You must be actively seeking work
- You must be willing to accept suitable work
Earnings Requirements
- You must have earned sufficient wages during your base period
- Your total base period wages must be at least 1.5 times your highest quarter wages
- You must have earned wages in at least two quarters of your base period
- Your highest quarter earnings must be at least $1,872
Work Requirements
- You must file weekly claims
- You must report any earnings from work
- You must participate in required reemployment services
- You must attend scheduled appointments with the Idaho Department of Labor
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful Resources
Official Resources
Contact Information
- Phone: (208) 364-7781
- Toll-Free: (800) 364-7781
- Email: unemployment@labor.idaho.gov
Local Offices
- Find a Local Office
- Boise: 317 W. Front Street
- Coeur d'Alene: 1910 N. 27th Street
