Connecticut Unemployment Application

Connecticut Unemployment Benefits


In order to receive Connecticut unemployment insurance, you must first complete an initial application. This can be accomplished by utilizing the state’s online unemployment system.

Applying for Connecticut unemployment benefits online

The easiest way to apply for Connecticut unemployment compensation is by using the ReEmployCT unemployment system. This online portal enables you to handle all aspects of your unemployment benefits and communicate with the CT Department of Labor. This includes:

  • Filing weekly certifications
  • Updating contact information
  • Messaging the Connecticut Department of Labor
  • Filing an appeal
  • Managing tax documents
  • Managing payments

Information needed to file for benefits

Eligible workers will need the following information and documents to apply for Connecticut unemployment benefits:

  • Personal identification details (full name, date of birth, Social Security Number)
  • Contact information (address, phone number, email)
  • Employment history for the past 18 months (including employer names, addresses, and dates of employment)
  • Reason for unemployment (laid off, reduced hours, etc.)
  • Bank account information (if you choose direct deposit for benefit payments)
  • Alien registration number (if applicable)
  • Veterans’ information (if applicable)

How to create your ReEmployCT account

To create your ReEmployCT account to apply for unemployment benefits, visit reemployct.dol.ct.gov and click the “Create an Account” button.

Fill out the registration form completely, and make sure to double-check all the information for accuracy before you submit it.

Verifying your identity for unemployment benefits

Connecticut verifies identity for unemployment benefits through a process known as ID.me. Here’s how it works:

  1. During the application process, you will be prompted to create an account with ID.me, a trusted identity verification service.
  2. ID.me will ask you to provide personal information, and may request additional documents to verify your identity, such as a driver’s license or passport.
  3. Once you have submitted the required information, ID.me will review and verify your identity electronically.
  4. In some cases, if electronic verification is not possible, you may be required to complete a video call with an ID.me agent, who will verify your identity.
  5. Once your identity has been successfully verified, you will be able to proceed with your unemployment benefits application.

After applying for Connecticut unemployment insurance

After submitting your initial application for unemployment assistance, you will need to submit a weekly claim certification to show you are available for work and searching for new employment. You will also need to report any income you earned throughout the week.

The state of Connecticut requires you to perform three work search activities per week to remain eligible for benefits. This can be contacting employers, interviewing for a job, participating in reemployment services, or attending a job fair or networking event.

How to register for work

After submitting your initial claim for benefits, you will be automatically registered with Connecticut’s employment services system, CTHires. It is highly recommended that you upload your resume to the system and browse the available job openings to assist in your job search efforts.

What happens if my unemployment application is denied?

If your application for unemployment benefits is denied, you will receive a decision that explains why you are not eligible. If you believe that the decision is unfair and you should receive benefits, you can appeal by presenting your case before a referee with the appeals division.

Why would a UI application be denied?

A UI application in Connecticut may be denied for a variety of reasons. A few of the most common include:

  1. Ineligibility: If you do not meet the eligibility criteria established by the Connecticut Department of Labor, such as having sufficient earnings during the base period or meeting the work search requirements, your application may be denied.
  2. Insufficient Work History: To qualify for UI benefits, you must have earned a certain amount of wages during your base period. If your work history does not meet the required threshold, your application may be denied.
  3. Voluntary Separation: If you left your job voluntarily without a valid reason, such as quitting without good cause or resigning due to personal preferences, your application may be denied.
  4. Misconduct: Being terminated for misconduct or violating employer policies can lead to disqualification from receiving UI benefits.
  5. Inaccurate or Incomplete Information: Providing incorrect or incomplete information on your application can result in a denial.

When will I start receiving UI benefits?

Every unemployment claim is assessed individually, taking into account specific circumstances. In general, most claims are processed within 10 days.

However, if the claim involves employment in other states or income from federal programs, it may take a bit longer, as the Connecticut Department of Labor needs to wait for information from these entities.

Additionally, situations such as separation hearings, wage investigations, or employer appeals can also cause delays or interruptions in the processing of a claim.

When does my weekly claim start?

Once you have applied for benefits, you can start submitting your weekly claim on the Sunday following your initial application. It’s important to complete your weekly claims by 11:59 PM on each Saturday of the week you are claiming benefits. Failure to do so could lead to a delay or denial of payment.

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

There are two ways to check the status of your unemployment claim in Connecticut.

The easiest way is by logging into your ReEmployCT account. From there, you can see a detailed breakdown of your claim information and weekly certification statuses.

You can also call the consumer contact center and talk to a live representative for help.

How do I contact Connecticut unemployment?

If you have any questions about your unemployment insurance application or weekly claims, it’s best to contact the Connecticut consumer contact center. They can provide you with the necessary information and address your concerns.

If you want more information about job search resources, you can contact or visit your local American Job Center. They are there to support you and provide guidance in your job search efforts.

Can I file an unemployment claim with another state?

When applying for unemployment benefits, it’s important to file in the state where you earned the most wages during your base period. If you worked and earned wages in a state other than Connecticut during that period, you have the option to file a combined wage claim. This can help increase the amount of money you receive each week. You cannot file for unemployment benefits in multiple states simultaneously.

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

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

If you intentionally give false information or hide important details to obtain benefits, it is considered unemployment fraud according to Connecticut law.

Engaging in fraud can lead to consequences like being denied benefits, having to repay benefits along with extra fees, and potentially facing criminal charges. It’s very important to be honest and provide accurate information.

Who pays for Connecticut unemployment insurance?

Connecticut unemployment insurance is primarily funded through employer contributions. Employers in Connecticut are required by law to pay unemployment taxes, which contribute to the state’s unemployment insurance fund.

Can I work part time and receive unemployment benefits?

It depends. If you are working part-time, you might still qualify for partial unemployment insurance benefits. However, it’s important to report any money you earn from your part-time job, as this can affect the amount of benefits you receive.

  1. I’ve been having this problem since i applied error 108 YOUR CLAIM FILED BY PHONE/WEB IS BEING HELD DUE TO A POTENTIAL ISSUE please help

    • Reynaldo,

      Please wait until the issue is fixed. You can follow up with the Unemployment Office at regular intervals.

      • Hello… Its been over a month since I haven’t received any sort of benefits.. for 3 weeks I’ve been receiving code #3 then the following weeks were code #108. The numbers to call are currently automated and the inbox is full. The offices aren’t open the website doesn’t say much… I am not sure what else to do. I’ve been filling every week and no response or anything.
        PLEASE HELP because it’s driving me crazy…..

        • Khadijha,

          I can understand your situation. There will be a delay considering the number of applications that are being processed. Please continue chasing the office/check your status online at regular intervals

  2. Please help me. I noticed a number of people have asked about the same thing I’m trying to figure out. What does message code 108 mean? I filed for my unemployment this past Sunday, and I normally receive my benefits on Tuesday. Unfortunately this is happening during Corona Virus, and I just observed that I have limited funds left. Can someone please assist me?

    • Candida,

      We understand this might be a difficult time for you. We’re anticipating a shortage of staff across unemployment offices due to the massive surge in UI applications considering the pandemic. We advise against calling or visiting the office, as you may not get a response instantly.

      Your state may have activated “Extended Benefits (EB)” authorized by the federal government. We recommend you apply for UI benefits online. For more information, please visit your state’s official Unemployment website.

  3. My Benefits were held for the past four weeks – they keep sending me form to fill out and I have but I Have CODE 42, 43 and 108 listed. Is there anyway to expediate this process – I am running out of savings and have zero idea how to proceed. I just keep getting directed to the website which has no answers. How do I get a person to talk to outside of going to the center and waiting for hours?

    • Rich,

      The process can be expedited only if you chase the office at regular intervals. Make sure to chase the office over the phone and if need be, please consider visiting an office in the vicinity.

  4. I worked for TWO HOURS this week tutoring, and received $48 in payment. My claim is now being held and I’m getting a message code 108. I was told to call the TeleBenefits line and speak to a “customer service representative” of which there are apparently exactly ZERO. Then when I check the code on the CT UI website where I file my claim, I’m told to come to this website. This process is completely circular, and seems to have no resolution. My benefits are being held because I made $48? How exactly am I supposed to resolve this issue in an expedient manner?

    • You have to go there in person the first time to correct the issue, then ask for someone’s direct phone number when you are there to call the next time it happens. I have to call to correct a vague message 108 every 3 weeks or so, the system automatically flags accounts when you work part time, don’t work, and then work again. Just get a direct number for someone when you are there in person.

  5. Several responses direct the individual to call the “Claims Center”. I have been trying the main number for two weeks and can never get a person to speak with. Is there a special number for the Claims Center? One where you can actually speak to a person?

    • Brian,

      If you’re unable to get through with a specific phone number, please visit the official website for additional contact details.

  6. I received my unemployment payment the first week, but the last three weeks have been held. In trying to identify the problem, I have been directed in circles. Is there anyone I can talk to about it? I called the department of labor, but the extension for unemployment claims rang for 3 1/2 hours one day, 2 2/2, the next, etc. Is there any way to get to the bottom of it?

    • Kyle,

      I can understand the ordeal. Perhaps, you can visit the official website of the Labor Department to find out additional phone numbers or consider the option of visiting an office in the vicinity.

  7. I was receiving unemployment benefits due to a seasonal layoff. I returned to work part-time for one week and did not work the following week. I received partial benefit for the part-time week, but received a code: 108 message for the following week when I did not work. Will I receive benefits for the week I did not work?

    • You cannot sort anything with calling the Claims Center. It’s 100% automated for filing only. So best wishes finding out what’s holding your processing up.
      I’m driving an hour to wait in line at the office.

    • Katie,

      I think your claim is on hold for a potential issue. Please call the Claims Center immediately to understand its nature.

      • Is there any solution to receiving the error “Message Code: 108
        Message: YOUR CLAIM FILED BY PHONE/WEB IS BEING HELD DUE TO A POTENTIAL ISSUE. VISIT http://WWW.FILECTUI.COM“? Phones are automated, no clear solution on the web… Do I need to visit an office in person?

        • Lara,

          Please do consider visiting the nearest office if you’re unable to fix by phone/online. It might need immediate attention.

  8. I am out of state looking for a new job and I’ve received the held 108 thing, what am I to do if I can’t visit a location? What does this mean!

  9. I filed that I returned to full time work on 12/3 and stopped claiming benefits but recently laid off on 1/10. Am I elegibe for a continued claim? I submitted the info today but noticed a message 108. What does that # mean?

    • Kevin,

      You should be eligible to claim weeks from the same account. Before filing, please call the Claims Center to confirm.

    • Rina,

      If you’re managing your claim online, please check for options to edit the application. Else, please call the Claims Center.

  10. I did not receive my unemployment pay this week but received an error message, “Message Code: 108 Message: YOUR CLAIM FILED BY PHONE/WEB IS BEING HELD DUE TO A POTENTIAL ISSUE. VISIT http://WWW.FILECTUI.COM

    what do i do now? would the government shutdown delay payments?

    • I have the same message Code 108. Claim being held due to a potential issue. Not sure which number to call all say self service and live chat not available.

    • Camille,

      That is the possible reason “why” payments are not being processed. We’ve been hearing a lot on this forum about delayed payments. Please check within your community if someone else has a similar roadblock. You can also call the Claims Center to inquire further.

  11. My permanent address is in Massachusetts but I worked in CT, living there during the week as a nurse. There was a reduction in force. Do I file for unemployment in CT or MA?

  12. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California, and I relocated to Stamford, CT in June. I need to take the MFT exam in CT because my California license is not accepted here. Am I eligible for unemployment benefits? And if so, do I claim in CT or in CA?

    • Peter,

      You may not be eligible since unemployment insurance is only extended to those who become unemployed due to involuntary reasons. Please call the Unemployment Office for clarification.

  13. I am getting laid off in 6 weeks and will receive a severance. at what point can i apply for unemployment- at the time i receive my letter or after my severance expires?

  14. Is the EUC still expired. I have exhausted my benefits this week and still have not found employment.

    • Nicole,

      Please provide further details surrounding your question. You can call the Unemployment Office if you’re looking for Unemployment Insurance.

  15. I am being layed off with 16 weeks severance, when can/should I file for unemployment and do I have to wait until my severance package has ended?

    • Kristin,

      That is correct. Please wait for the expiry of the severance payout and apply immediately after that.

    • The EUC (Emergency Unemployment Compensation) remains expired.

      I suggest you call the local Unemployment Office to inquire about state-sponsored benefits.

    • Your eligibility depends on multiple inputs. Read about it on our website and understand the process and eligibility.

  16. I am seeking one ( 1 ) week UI because of a plant shutdown. What is the proper procedure for filing?

    • Please call the Unemployment Office to confirm if you’re eligible for a temporary shutdown and apply accordingly.

    • 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.

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