Idaho Unemployment Benefit Questions

Idaho Unemployment Benefits

Going through the Idaho unemployment insurance process can bring up many questions.  A few of the most common ones include:

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

You can easily apply for unemployment benefits by using the state’s online portal. Learn more.

There are no telephone options to apply for unemployment options in Idaho. If you lack internet access or need help with filling out the application for benefits, it is highly recommended that you visit your local Idaho Department of Labor office.

How much is unemployment in Idaho?

As of 2023, the highest possible weekly benefit amount in Idaho is $532. The lowest weekly benefit amount is $72. These amounts are reviewed at the end of each year.

You can calculate your estimated weekly benefit amount by using our Idaho Unemployment Calculator.

How long does Idaho unemployment take to process?

Once you meet the waiting week requirements, you should receive your first payment three to four business days after filing your second weekly certification, provided there are no eligibility issues with your claim.

When does my weekly claim start?

Each benefit week is Sunday through Saturday. You can file your weekly certification for the previous week starting 12 a.m. MST Sunday.

You will need to file weekly certifications every week you want to be paid benefits. Failure to do so could lead to a delay in benefits for that week, or even a denial. Failure to file claims for two weeks in a row will lead to your benefits becoming inactive.

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

To check the progress of your claim, you can use the iUS Claimant Portal. Just log in and click on the Manage Claims tab to view information on certifications, issues, and payments. If you see a message that says “No Current Claim” in the claims section, it means you haven’t filed a claim yet.

How do you contact Idaho unemployment?

If you have questions about the Idaho unemployment insurance program, or have questions about your claim, you will need to call the unemployment insurance claims center anytime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

If you need help finding a job or would like more information about the services available to job seekers, you should visit your local Idaho Department of Labor Office.

Can I file an unemployment claim with another state?

According to federal law, you cannot receive unemployment benefits from more than one state. However, if you worked in multiple states during the base period used to calculate your benefits, you can request to have your earnings from those states added to your Idaho earnings. This can increase the amount of money you receive each week.

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

Providing false information or leaving out important details to get unemployment benefits is known as unemployment fraud. This is against the law in Idaho, and there can be severe consequences if you’re caught.

Penalties for fraud can include denial of future benefits, paying back the benefits you received plus fees, and even criminal charges.

Who pays for Idaho unemployment insurance?

Employers in Idaho pay a tax that goes toward funding unemployment insurance benefits. The Idaho Department of Labor collects this tax and puts it in a federal trust fund. This fund is specifically used for paying out unemployment benefits and cannot be used for anything else.

Can I work part time and receive benefits?

Yes, you can work part time and receive unemployment benefits so long as you earn less than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount. However, you must continue to meet the state’s eligibility requirements, including the work search requirements to find a new full time job.

What wages do I need to report?

When you’re receiving unemployment benefits, you need to report all the money you earn from any employer you work for. This includes wages you earned during the week you worked, not just the week you were paid. You will also need to report any compensation you receive for goods or services, even if it’s not in the form of money. This can include things like room and board.

Additionally, you must report holiday pay, severance pay, bonus pay, and vacation pay. If you get holiday pay, you should report it during the week of the holiday. If you receive bonus or severance pay as a lump sum, you should report it during the week it’s paid. But if it’s paid on a regular schedule, report it for the week it’s issued. If you receive vacation pay, report it for the week it’s issued.

Are unemployment benefits subject to taxes?

Yes, you will need to pay federal income tax on any unemployment income you receive. However, you can choose to have 10% of your benefit payments withheld to put toward federal taxes. To do this, you’ll need to change your settings in the iUS claimant portal.

The Idaho Department of Labor cannot withhold money for state taxes. This means you’ll need to plan ahead and save enough money to pay any state taxes you may owe on your benefits.

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

If you’re retired, you usually can’t receive unemployment benefits, but there are some exceptions. If you are eligible for benefits and you get a pension from a job you had during the period used to calculate your benefits, the amount of your pension will be taken out of your weekly benefit payment unless you contributed to the pension.

If you quit your last job to retire, you’ll still need to meet the unemployment insurance program’s eligibility requirements. This means you’ll need to work and earn at least 14 times your weekly benefit amount. Then, you’ll need to become unemployed again through no fault of your own. If you’re retired but looking for full-time work, you may still be eligible for benefits.

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

If you haven’t maxed out your benefits for the year, you can simply log into the iUS Claimant Portal and reopen your claim by uploading your most recent work history.

  1. I live in Idaho but work full time in Washington. Do I apply for unemployment in Idaho or Washington?

  2. Moved from Idaho to Arizona, tried filing on line thru Idaho, got so far and it stopped me and said I have to show proof of who I am by going to DES office in Idaho.
    Really..!!
    Can’t I just file thru Arizona..?

    • Eric,

      Ideally, you should be filing from your employment was based. If you’re having issues, please call the Unemployment Office.

  3. I have been laid off from one of my part time jobs that I started in Sept. I will also be laid off from my other part time job when the school year ends. Prior to both of these jobs, I was a stay at home caregiver for my Grandchildren for eight months so did not draw a paycheck. If I file for unemployment compensation in June will I be able to collect it. The whole base period thing is very confusing. Thank you.

    • I am not sure if you can be eligible to claim Unemployment Benefits on the basis of the part-time jobs.

      Please call the Unemployment Office for clarification.

  4. I’m an adjunct teacher and have been cut to one lab class this semester instead of two classes. Can I apply for unemployment benefits? I’ve been working since Jan. 2014.

    • Not sure if you will be eligible due to the nature of work contract.

      Please call the Unemployment Office in your state for further information.

    • Please consider filing during the last week of your employment or immediately after your “Last Working Day”.

  5. can I collect unemployment insurance Benefits While still working. They cut hours in half from my full time hours of 40 hrs a week. now at 23 hrs would like to know can I collect the difference in my benefits.

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