Illinois Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment is a growing concern in Illinois, just like in other parts of the United States. The State provides unemployment insurance benefits to those who qualify. Illinois’ Department of Employment Security (IDES) is responsible for administering the state’s unemployment insurance program.

What is Unemployment Insurance?

Unemployment insurance (UI) is a system where employees who lose their jobs through no fault of their own receive financial assistance to help them maintain their standard of living while they look for new employment. Unemployment insurance benefits are paid by the state government to eligible workers who have become unemployed due to a variety of reasons, including layoffs, permanent or temporary business closures, and natural disasters. In Illinois, the UI program is partially funded by employers who pay UI taxes on behalf of their employees.

Who is Eligible for Unemployment Insurance in Illinois?

In Illinois, employees who have lost their job through no fault of their own are eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits. To qualify, you must:

If you are eligible, you may receive up to 26 weeks of unemployment insurance benefits.

How to Apply for Unemployment Insurance in Illinois

If you have lost your job and believe you may be eligible for unemployment insurance in Illinois, you will need to file a claim with IDES. You can do this online, by phone, or in-person at an IDES office.

Online

The easiest and quickest way to file an unemployment insurance claim in Illinois is online. You will need to create an account on the IDES website, and then follow the instructions to file your claim. You will need to provide information such as your Social Security number, employment history, and reason for unemployment.

By Phone

If you don’t have access to a computer or prefer to file your claim over the phone, you can call the IDES TeleServe number at 1-800-244-5631. You will need to provide the same information as if you were filing online, so make sure you have all the necessary information handy before you call.

In-Person

If you prefer to file your claim in-person, you can visit one of the many IDES offices throughout the state. Check the IDES website for a list of locations and hours of operation.

How Much Will You Receive in Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

The amount of unemployment insurance benefits you receive in Illinois depends on your past earnings. IDES calculates your weekly benefit amount as 47% of your average weekly wage during your two highest-earning quarters of the base period (the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim). The maximum weekly benefit amount in Illinois is $674 as of 2021.

How to Maintain Eligibility for Unemployment Insurance in Illinois

To continue receiving unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois, you must meet several requirements:

1. You must continue to actively search for work and be willing to accept suitable job offers.

2. You must be physically and mentally able to work.

3. You must file your weekly certifications on time. You will need to report any income you earn during the week, as well as any job offers or job refusals.

4. You must attend any meetings or appointments scheduled by IDES.

FAQ

1. How long does it take to receive unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois?

It can take anywhere from two to four weeks to receive your first unemployment insurance payment in Illinois, depending on how quickly IDES processes your claim. Make sure you file your claim as soon as you become unemployed to minimize the waiting period.

2. Can you still receive unemployment insurance benefits if you work part-time in Illinois?

You may be eligible for partial unemployment insurance benefits if you work part-time while receiving unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois. IDES will calculate your benefit amount based on the hours you work and the amount you earn.

3. What happens if your unemployment insurance claim is denied in Illinois?

If your unemployment insurance claim is denied in Illinois, you have the right to appeal the decision. You must file your appeal within 30 days of the denial notice.

4. What happens if you move out of Illinois while receiving unemployment insurance benefits?

If you move out of Illinois while receiving unemployment insurance benefits, you must continue to meet Illinois’ eligibility requirements to continue receiving benefits. This includes actively searching for work and filing your weekly certifications on time. If you move out of the country, however, you will no longer be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois.

5. Can self-employed individuals receive unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois?

Under the CARES Act, self-employed individuals and independent contractors may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois. You will need to file a pandemic unemployment assistance (PUA) claim with IDES to determine your eligibility.