File unemployment claims online, urges Maine DOL
AUGUSTA — Maine Department of Labor Commissioner Jeanne Paquette urges people who anticipate that they will be filing unemployment claims now through mid-January to file online.
The first week of January is usually the busiest week of the year for unemployment claims as post-holiday seasonal layoffs occur at businesses around the state.
The best way to apply for unemployment is to visit www.file4ui.com. Workers must also register with the Maine Job Bank.
“Although laid-off workers can phone in their unemployment claims, high call volumes mean longer wait times. Our website offers the most convenient way to file a claim 24 hours a day and also connects job seekers to resources that will help them get a new job. Our goal is to get everyone back to work,” Paquette said.
Workers also need to be sure to use the correct website to file their claims. The department warns that there are many websites that offer to help laid-off workers file an unemployment claim. Some charge fees for the service, while others attempt to gather personal data on the people who use the sites.
People who do not have access to a computer or the Internet are encouraged to use a computer at their local CareerCenter or public library. CareerCenter staff can help claimants sign up for a free email address, register for the job bank to get immediate job referrals, and learn how to create a resume and apply for jobs online.
In order to qualify to collect unemployment benefits, workers must have lost their jobs through no fault of their own, be actively seeking work and be able to accept new work. Workers who do not participate in a suitable, verifiable work search or who do not document their work search risk losing unemployment benefits and could be required to pay back benefits they have received.
For more information about unemployment benefits, visit http://www.file4ui.com.
Information and support for job seekers or those interested in changing careers are available at www.mainecareercenter.com.