Unemployed Maine residents wondering, “How can I sign up for unemployment in Maine?” will benefit from reviewing the information presented in this section. Before you can receive unemployment benefits, you will need to fill out an application. The state will examine your unemployment EDD application, and if you meet eligibility requirements, then you will begin receiving aid benefits on a weekly basis.
Read through the sections below to learn how and where to sign up for unemployment:
To apply for unemployment benefits in Maine, unemployed residents must meet the eligibility requirements. If you meet the general eligibility standards, your chances of approval will be fairly high. The state will require you to file a claim for every week that you are unemployed.
The Department of Labor defines an “initial” claim as:
In Maine, a benefit year consists of 12 months, starting on the Sunday you choose to file your initial claim. The state does not back-date claims, and you must have earned a predetermined amount of income to be eligible for benefits. If your unemployment EDD application is approved, you may be able to receive up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits.
If you know how to apply for unemployment online in ME, the process will be much easier and quicker. Unemployment applicants can access the online unemployment application through the state’s official unemployment website. The site allows you to file a claim, as well as access information about your previous claims. When filling out your online application for unemployment, please have the following information ready:
You must answer all of the unemployment application questions completely; the state will not accept incomplete applications. Once you have submitted your application, the system will provide you with a confirmation number and send you an email. Please keep your confirmation number in a safe place for your records.
Jobseekers in Maine can also file for unemployment over the phone by calling the Unemployment Compensation Claims Center. A state representative will answer your call and ask you the necessary questions. There is no paperwork to complete, which is convenient. If you do not have access to a telephone, you may freely use the phone at your local Maine Department of Labor Career Center. Before you start your unemployment EDD application, the state asks that you keep the information listed in the section above within reach.
The state encourages applicants to complete an online application for unemployment, but if you must file by phone, then the state recommends that you adhere to the following suggestions:
The state also allows unemployed workers to file for unemployment by fax or mail. You can pick up a claim form from your local career center, or print one off their website. Once you fill in the necessary information, simply mail or fax it to UC Claims Center. If you need help with unemployment registration, the state includes an instruction booklet with each paper application. Some private employers may even have paper claims on hand for their employees.
When you file for an unemployment claim in ME, it is important to provide honest and valid information. The state has the right to verify any information you provide. If you intentionally provide false information to the Department of Labor, not only will your claim be denied, but you could be charged with fraud. When you file for unemployment, a representative will verify the information by searching the:
Before you begin the initial ME unemployment registration process, you will need to register for work with the state. Failure to do this can also result in a denial of benefits. If you do not know where to register for unemployment benefits or work, visit the Department of Labor website or call your nearest branch.
unemploymentclaimsinfo.com is a privately owned website that is not owned or operated by any government agency.