Many states offer online or by phone options to open a claim or apply for unemployment insurance. You will be required to provide information such as the name and address of your employer, time worked, wages earned as well as your social security number and other identification as requested.

There is often a three to four week processing period before the first payment is received. Most states have a one week waiting period that is paid at the end of the eligibility limits, rather than at the beginning of the program.

Filing for unemployment insurance does not mean that the individual is entitled to collect the full amount of the limitation of the insurance. Individuals are required to continue to look for work and are strongly encouraged to enter the workforce as quickly as possible rather than relying on the insurance.