If you’re unemployed in Illinois, you can apply for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits through the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Here’s how to get started, certify for payments, and find support.
📝 How to File a Claim
1. Online (Recommended)
Visit the official IDES website:
👉 ides.illinois.gov/unemployment
2. By Phone
Call the IDES Claimant Services Center:
📞 (800) 244-5631
3. In-Person (Appointment Required)
If you can’t file online or by phone, schedule an appointment to file in person:
📞 (217) 558-0401
📅 Certifying for Benefits
After your initial claim is filed, you must regularly “certify” to confirm your continued eligibility for payments.
Online Certification
✅ Best option: ides.illinois.gov/certify
🕒 Hours: 3:00 AM – 7:30 PM, on your assigned certification day (including holidays)
Tele-Serve (Phone Certification)
📞 (312) 338-4337
🕒 Hours: 3:00 AM – 7:30 PM, Monday through Friday
Missed Your Day?
No problem. You can certify on Thursday or Friday as a makeup day.
📌 What You’ll Need to File
Before you begin, have the following ready:
- Social Security Number and your name as shown on your card
- State ID or Driver’s License
- Alien Registration info (if not a U.S. citizen)
- Names, dates, addresses, and phone numbers of all employers from the past 18 months
- Reasons for separation from each employer
- Dependent info (spouse/child’s SSN and birthdate, if applicable)
💳 How You’ll Get Paid
After successful certification:
- You’ll receive payment in 2–3 business days
- Payment is made via debit card or direct deposit
- You can enroll in direct deposit at any time via your IDES account
🆘 Rapid Response Services for Layoffs
If you’ve been affected by a mass layoff or business closure, Illinois offers help:
- Job search and retraining support
- On-site help from Illinois workNet
More info:
🔗 Rapid Response Services
📞 Key Contacts
| Department | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Claimant Services | (800) 244-5631 |
| IllinoisJobLink Help Desk | (877) 342-7533 |
| Fraud & Identity Theft | (800) 814-0513 |
| Employer Services | (800) 247-4984 |
🔗 Useful Links
- 💼 Apply for UI Benefits: ides.illinois.gov/unemployment
- ✅ Certify for Benefits: ides.illinois.gov/certify
- 🔍 Job Search: IllinoisJobLink.com