Skip main navigation

Outdated or Unsupported Browser Detected
DWD's website uses the latest technology. This makes our site faster and easier to use across all devices. Unfortunatley, your browser is out of date and is not supported. An update is not required, but it is strongly recommended to improve your browsing experience. To update Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge visit their website.

  2. Unemployment Insurance
  3. Claimants
  4. Apply for Benefits Online
icon of computer

Apply for Benefits Online

English  |  Español

For a New Claim or to Reopen an Existing Claim

If you're out of work through no fault of your own, and you've worked for a covered employer (an employer who pays UI tax) in the last 18 months, you'll need to apply for unemployment benefits before you can begin filing a weekly claim.

Please make sure you have these documents ready to go to make your application quick and easy:

Apply for Benefits Here

Log on to my.unemployment.wisconsin.gov

  • Certain situations require additional information we cannot collect online at this time. A few examples include:
    • You work for an educational employer.
    • You did not work for one of the employers we have on file for you.
  • If you are instructed to call a claims specialist to complete your claim during business hours, the information you have already provided will be saved and available to the claims specialist when you call.
  • You will receive a claim confirmation and instructions form.
  • The claimant handbook is online. You are responsible for knowing the information provided in this handbook.
  • If you qualify for unemployment benefits, we will send you a notice with the amount of benefits you can receive.
  • If you do not qualify for unemployment benefits, we will send you a notice that tells you why.
  • If you are required to perform a weekly work search or if you work less than full-time (32 hours or more per week)  you must register for work with Job Center of Wisconsin and complete a résumé within 14 days of the date you completed your application for unemployment benefits.

Hours of Operation: Apply online during these times:

Sunday 9:00 AM – Midnight
Monday – Friday Available 24 Hours
Saturday Midnight – 3:00 PM

Related Videos

Related Resources

Related Publications