Connecticut Unemployment Benefit Questions

Connecticut Unemployment Benefits

The Connecticut unemployment insurance program can be confusing to understand. To help you out, here are answers to some of the most common questions that claimants have about the process:

How do I file a claim for unemployment benefits in Connecticut?

You can apply for Connecticut unemployment insurance by visiting the state’s ReEmployCT online portal. See our CT unemployment application guide.

How much is unemployment in Connecticut?

The minimum weekly benefit amount in Connecticut is $15, while the maximum weekly benefit amount is $703. However, the state does give a dependency allowance, which is $15 per dependent for a maximum of $75 per week – so the maximum anyone can receive is $778.

$703 + $75 = $778

You can calculate your weekly benefit amount by visiting the Connecticut Unemployment Calculator.

How long does Connecticut unemployment take to process?

Each unemployment claim is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Typically, most claims are processed within 10 days. However, if the claim involves wages in other states or income from federal programs, it may take a little longer to process.

Moreover, certain situations like separation hearings, wage investigations, or employer appeals can also cause delays or interruptions in processing a claim.

When does my weekly claim start?

In Connecticut, the weekly claim for unemployment benefits begins on the Sunday after you initially file your claim. You must complete your weekly claim by 11:59 PM the following Saturday if you want to receive benefits for that week.

How do I check the status of my claim in Connecticut?

The easiest way to check the status of your unemployment claim in Connecticut is by logging into your ReEmployCT account. You can also call the consumer contact center.

How do you contact Connecticut unemployment?

If you have questions about the unemployment insurance program, you can call the state consumer contact center for help. Live representatives are available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and can answer questions about eligibility issues, filing an initial application, and completing weekly certifications.

If you have questions about finding new employment and the resources available to job seekers, you’ll want to call or visit your local American Job Center.

Can I file an unemployment claim in another state?

When you apply for unemployment benefits, it’s important to file your claim in the state where you earned the highest wages during the base period. You cannot file for unemployment benefits in more than one state at the same time.

If you worked and earned wages in a state other than Connecticut during your base period, you have the option to file what’s known as a combined wage claim. This allows you to potentially receive a higher weekly benefit amount.

What happens if I lie to get unemployment benefits in Connecticut?

If you deliberately provide false information or withhold important details to obtain unemployment benefits in Connecticut, it is considered unemployment fraud. Engaging in fraudulent activities can have serious consequences.

Under Connecticut state law, committing unemployment fraud can lead to penalties such as being denied benefits, having to repay the benefits received with additional fees, and even facing criminal prosecution.

Who pays for Connecticut unemployment insurance?

In Connecticut, unemployment insurance is primarily funded through employer contributions. Employers are required to pay unemployment taxes based on their payroll and industry classification. The amount they contribute is determined by the number of employees they have and their unemployment claims history. These employer contributions go into a dedicated fund known as the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, which is used to pay out unemployment benefits to eligible workers.

Can I work part-time and receive unemployment benefits?

Yes, it is possible to work part-time and still receive unemployment benefits in Connecticut. However, the amount of benefits you receive may be reduced based on your earnings from part-time work.

When you report your earnings from part-time employment on your weekly certification claim, the Connecticut Department of Labor will assess your eligibility and calculate the partial benefits you are entitled to receive. It’s important to accurately report your earnings to ensure proper calculation of your benefits.

What wages do I need to report?

When receiving unemployment benefits in Connecticut, you are required to report any income you receive. A few examples include:

  1. Wages: Any earnings you receive from employment, including full-time, part-time, and temporary work.
  2. Self-Employment Income: If you are self-employed and earn income from your own business or freelance work, it should be reported.
  3. Tips and Gratuities: Any tips or gratuities you receive as part of your employment.
  4. Severance Pay: Lump-sum payments you receive as compensation from your former employer upon separation.
  5. Vacation and Holiday Pay: Income received for unused vacation or holiday time.
  6. Pensions and Retirement Benefits: Any pension payments or retirement benefits you receive.

It’s crucial to provide accurate and complete information about your income to ensure your unemployment benefits are calculated correctly. Failure to report all sources of income may result in penalties or repayment requirements.

Are unemployment benefits subject to taxes?

Yes, Connecticut unemployment benefits are subject to taxes. Both federal and state income taxes may apply to the unemployment benefits you receive.

You have the option to have taxes withheld from your weekly benefit payments, or you can choose not to have taxes withheld and instead be responsible for paying the taxes when you file your annual income tax return.

At the end of January each year, the Connecticut Department of Labor will provide you with Form 1099-G, which shows the total amount of unemployment benefits you received during the previous year. This form will also indicate the amount of federal income tax withheld from your benefits, if applicable.

Can I get unemployment if I am receiving a pension or retirement?

In Connecticut, your eligibility for unemployment benefits can be affected if you are receiving a pension or retirement income. Generally, if you are receiving a pension or retirement income from a base period employer, a reduction in your unemployment benefits may occur.

The reduction in benefits is typically based on the amount of pension or retirement income you receive. This reduction is calculated according to specific rules and formulas established by the Connecticut Department of Labor. The CT Department of Labor will consider factors such as the amount of pension income, the reason for the pension, and whether you contributed to the pension fund.

It’s important to note that while pension or retirement income may impact your unemployment benefits, it does not automatically disqualify you from receiving benefits entirely. You should still apply for unemployment benefits if you believe you meet the eligibility requirements, and the CT Department of Labor will determine the appropriate amount of benefits considering all relevant factors, including your pension or retirement income.

What happens if I lose my job shortly after finding reemployment?

If it has been less than a year since you initially filed for unemployment insurance and you have not maxed out your benefits for the year, you can reopen your claim by logging into your ReEmployCT account.

If it has been more than one year since you last applied for benefits, you will need to file a new application and meet the state’s eligibility requirements again.

  1. I’m just beginning to file for unemployment in CT. I also registered for Social Security, which I won’t start receiving till the end of May. Am I supposed to report my Social Security to unemployment, each month?

    • Hi, Pamela – People who receive Social Security benefits in Connecticut also may receive unemployment compensation benefits if they otherwise qualify. However, federal law requires states to deduct from an unemployment compensation claimant’s benefits the weekly amount of any “governmental [including Social Security] or other pension, retirement or retired pay, annuity or other similar periodic payment which is based on [his] previous work.” So once you begin receiving Social Security benefits, your UI benefits will be reduced.

  2. I receive a pension from a different company than the one I was laid off from. Will benefit be affected/lessened by my monthly pension?

    Also, do I worked in NY but live in CT…the weekly benefit is higher in CT. Can I file in CT or must I file in NY.
    Thank you!

    • Jan,

      The pension amount will have a monetary impact on the weekly benefit amount. With reference to your second question, you should be filing from the state where your previous employment was based.

  3. I was advised by text to file a claim on Sunday however when I file and respond to the questions- I cannot submit
    my claim is still under the review period

  4. I opened a claim on 3/8/19 and received my first week of unemployment benefits which was for the week ending 2/23/19. I did not realize that I also needed to file another claim that same week for the week ending 3/2/19. I am not even sure if I could’ve filed those two claims so close together. Now when I attempted to file a continued claim, I am unable as there is a message that I did not file for the previous week. Looks like I missed the filing dates for the weeks ending 3/2/19 and 3/9/19. How can I remedy this so that going forward I am back on track? Please help!

    • Linda,

      If you don’t claim for the week within the stipulated window, you might not be able to apply retrospectively. Please call the Claims Center for clarification.

  5. I was laid off a week ago and I filed for unemployment the next day. I received a letter that week and an email stating I should file a continued claim, when I try to do so it states that I did not file for the previous week. Help!

  6. Good Morning, I am currently receiving social security and working. One of my jobs is seasonal and stopped sometime in Dec. Another part-time that I am currently working will be ending soon as the company is closing it’s doors soon. Will I be able to collect unemployment for either of these 2 jobs. The seasonal one hasn’t started back up yet, and I was unaware that I would have been able to collect UI. Thanking you in advance. Have a great day.

    • Rosemary,

      Part-time/Seasonal workers do not generally qualify since employers’ don’t remit Unemployment Taxes into the system. Please check with your employer/contact the unemployment office.

  7. Hello, I was recently separated from my job. I accidentally mailed my claim instead of faxing. It will still get there before the due date. Will this delay my claim? And also, how long after the approval will I start receiving benefits?

  8. I went into treatment for alcohol this year. I’ve worked at the company for 2 years and have averaged 8 hrs./wk overtime on top of my 40 hrs. I’m a member of a union and have never been written up for any violation of company policy and have never used on the job. Can I collect ? Thanks

  9. I filed my first claim last Sunday, 12/31/17 and tried to file last night and the system wouldn’t let me file. Can you please help me. Thank you.

  10. I was recently let go from a contracting position. I was on contract for nearly 2 years. My contractor told me I was eligible for U.C. . My claim is currently on hold pending employment separation verification. This is going into my second week. How long does this typically take?

  11. I applied for unemployment compensation online shortly after my employment was terminated on 10/25/17. The only communication I received from the Labor Dept. dated 1/26/17, which was a Monetary Determination of Unemployment Compensation Benefits form. When and how may I expect to receive my first compensation check? I prefer it be directly deposited into my checking account, but was not presented with any distribution option.

    • Joel,

      If the determination is positive, you should start receiving payments anytime now. Make sure to file weekly claims on the internet or by phone. For additional info, please call the Claims Center.

  12. Hello, I am currently collecting unemployment benefits in CT right now. I live in NY and am starting my own business soon, sole propietorship. When starting my business and answering my weekly questions, will this affect my benefits even if I am making no money, or even at a loss from collecting a loan from someone?

    • Johnny,

      As soon as you get into employment start earnings, you should stop applying. Please call the Claims Center to clarify.

    • Please note this is a private forum and we do not have access your claim. Please call the Claims Center to find out the amount.

    • To be eligible, the claimant should have considerable earnings through employment in the last 4-5 calendar quarters.

  13. I have been receiving a weekly benefit since going back to work part time but last week payment was not issued for the week of 2/11. I filed just as I have from in the past. A message came up that I reported going back to work but it was no different that the past and it is only part time. need to contact someone?

    • The E.U.C(Emergency Unemployment Compensation) remains expired. There is no extension available. Please inquire further with the labor authorities in your state by calling them.

  14. I took a partial distribution from my 401k plan, which I indicated on my ongoing claim. My benefit is being held because the information needs to be verified. they tell me to call the telebenefit line, but it has been hanging up on me since yesterday.
    Is there any way to do this online????

    • Well, I guess this needs a verification call by a representative. Please check for alternate numbers or consider visiting the nearest Unemployment Office for an update.

  15. I have wage earnings from CT and NH over the past 12 months.
    I reside in CT and pay CT state taxes, however, my job has me supervising in New Hamosire and Massachusetts areas.
    Where would I file for unemployment benefits?
    How would my benefits be calculated?!

    • You should be looking at filing from the state where your employment is based. Check out the Unemployment Benefits Calculator to calculate the benefits. Further details can be found on the Labor Department’s official website.

  16. I was rushed to the care of my son who is very ill and I forgot to call my unemployment in on sunday, what should I do?

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