Job seeker tip
If you're filing for unemployment and don't have a computer at home, you can
- Ask a friend or family member to borrow theirs
- Use a computer at your local library
- Use a computer at your local One-Stop Career Center
Job seeker tip
Why is it so hard to get through to unemployment by phone in California?
Unemployment has risen sharply, creating new demand for UI benefits. The number of people filing for benefits has increased at least 80 percent from the same time last year and the number of calls coming into unemployment call centers has doubled. (Click for more FAQs)
What's the best way to file for unemployment? Online.
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How to file for unemployment
There's no question - the fastest and easiest way to file for unemployment in California is to file online. You can apply in English or Spanish. You'll need to provide
Be sure to answer ALL the questions correctly. If you leave a question blank or give the wrong answer, it will slow down the process. You might not get your payment even if you are eligible. Click here for more information about unemployment.
If you can't file online, you can do it by phone. The hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
There are three ways
to apply for unemployment:
• Your name & Social Security number
• Your last employer's name and address
• The reason you're no longer working
• Last date of work at your last employer
Please be patient. With so many people out of work, California has seen a huge increase in the number of people filing for unemployment. The phone systems are overloaded. You may have to dial ten times or more before you get through. Monday is the busiest day, so it may help if you call later in the week.
When you get to talk to someone at the unemployment office, please be kind. They're busy trying to help out other people just like you.
You can get help by phone in all of the following languages:
• English: 1-800-300-5616
• Spanish: 1-800-326-8937
• Cantonese: 1-800-547-3506
• Mandarin: 1-866-303-0706
• Vietnamese: 1-800-547-2058
• TTY (non-voice): 1-800-815-9387
Unemployment
