Where to Register for Unemployment Benefits in Hawaii
Where to apply for unemployment is an easy question to answer in Hawaii. First of all, you can file an online application for unemployment insurance benefits wherever you have access to a computer. Concerning the process of how to apply for unemployment online, this can be done in one of two ways. You can file for an unemployment claim from home if you have internet access, or you can file for unemployment at your local claims office by using the computer kiosks. This option is available for both new claimants filing their first claim and already-accepted beneficiaries filing their regular unemployment insurance claims. However, you must present photo identification if you choose this option.
If in addition to, “How can I sign up for unemployment online?” you were also wondering when you should do so, you may file during the following days and times:
- Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Also, you can apply for unemployment benefits online if you are physically in another state or in Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands or Canada.
When you establish a claim in Hawaii while residing out of state, the state you are filing from is called the “agent state” since it acts as the agent for Hawaii in processing your claim. HI is then considered your “liable state” and will make all determinations and payments on your claim. In most cases, you should deal directly with Hawaii’s Liable Interstate Unit, which you can contact by phone or by mail for assistance on your claim.
What Information Is Needed to File for Unemployment in Hawaii?
When you are ready to file for unemployment in HI, you will need the following information:
- Your Social Security Number.
- Your alien registration number, if you are not a United States citizen.
- Your employment information for the past 18 months, including the employer’s name, address, ZIP code, phone number, date of separation and reason for separation.
- Your DD-214 member number 4 copy, if you were separated from active military service (do not delay your filing if you do not have your DD-214, as you can provide this form at a later date after you request it online).
- Your SF8 or SF50 or pay stubs, if you were in federal employment.
- Your bank account number and your bank’s routing number (which can be found on a personal check connected to your checking account, or if depositing to your savings account, these can be located by contacting your financial institution).
Your claim begins the Sunday of the week in which you apply. If you delay and do not apply immediately, you will not receive credit for past weeks. Your claim will not begin before the week that you file for unemployment. If you worked in other states besides Hawaii (including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands) during the base period of your claim, you may be able to combine your earned wages to meet the necessary monetary qualifications or increase your weekly benefit amount.
Learn About the Hawaii Work Registration Process
During unemployment registration in HI, you must register for work with the state’s Workforce Development Division (WDD) within seven calendar days after applying for benefits. To register for work, you are required to post your resume online. If you do not own one, internet computers are available at the one-stop service centers or at public libraries. If you need assistance with completing your registration, help can be provided over the phone or in person at a one-stop service center. You must maintain an active resume for the entire time that you are filing for unemployment insurance benefits by reviewing and updating your CV whenever necessary.
