What Is Initial Unemployment Registration in Maine?
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:
•A claim for an unemployed individual who has never filed one before.
•A claim filed by a former employee whose most recent benefit year has ended.
•A reactivated unemployment claim for workers who filed within the last 52 weeks.
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.
How to Submit an Online Application for Unemployment in Maine
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:
•Your social security number
•Past employment and salary history
•The names, addresses, and phone numbers of previous employers
•Banking information (for direct deposit)
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.
Find Out Other Ways to file for Unemployment in Maine
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:
•Do not hang up if you are placed on hold.
•Only file claims using a landline phone if your cell phone is unclear.
•Call back later if you encounter a busy signal.
•For a shorter wait time, try calling on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.
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.
How to Avoid Unemployment Registration Fraud
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:
- New Hire database provided by the Departments of Health and Human Services/Labor
- Unemployment databases of other states
- Inmate records of prisons, jails, and other correctional facilities within the state
- Payroll records of private and public employers
Learn About Registering for Work in Maine
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.
