www.iowaworkforce.org  


Unemployment
Insurance (UI)
Services Division


 


Unemployment Insurance Service Center (UISC) 

Picture of a teleohone receiverFiling an Initial Claim

For most Iowans wanting to file a new, initial unemployment insurance claim (apply for benefits), the most efficient method is to File an Unemployment Insurance Claim online.

For those Iowans who are not able to file their initial claim online, we advise contacting the nearest Iowa Workforce Development Center.

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Continued Claims Reporting System

Most Iowans may receive unemployment insurance benefits for up to 26 weeks, and in some cases 39 weeks. To receive payments after you have filed your initial claim, you must confirm your eligibility every week by calling the UISC continued claims reporting system at (800) 850-5627 (outside the Des Moines area) or 281-6231 (in the Des Moines calling area). You may file your continued claim online at https://www1.iwd.state.ia.us/WeeklyClaims. It is best to file your continued claim during the weekend, between the hours of 10 a.m. Saturday through 11:30 p.m. Sunday, but the continued claims reporting system also is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:59 p.m. To continue receiving your benefits payments you must provide updated information weekly through the continued claims reporting system. 

When you file your continued claim, you will be asked a series of questions to certify that you:

  • Are unemployed or working only reduced hours;
  • Are able and available for work;
  • Have not refused any job offers or referrals;
  • Are actively looking for work (unless waived); and
  • Are reporting any pay or pension you may be receiving.

Temporary Extended Unemployment Compensation (TEUC)

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Reactivating an Existing Claim

If you already have applied for benefits (filed an initial claim) in the last 52 weeks, then you have an existing (open) claim.

Temporary Extended Unemployment Compensation (TEUC)

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Benefit Inquiry System

To check on the status of your claim or for questions about your benefit amount, call (800) 850-5627 (toll-free outside the Des Moines area) or 281-6231 (within the Des Moines calling area) between the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:59 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. You may check on the status of your claim online at https://www1.iwd.state.ia.us/WeeklyClaims during the same hours.

Note: If Monday is a holiday, information is not available until Wednesday of that week.

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