Filing an Unemployment Claim – Maryland

Please select a topic below:

1. Am I eligible to receive benefits?

You must be totally or partially unemployed through no fault of your own, and you must have earned sufficient wages in your base period (the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before the start date of your claim, or alternatively the last 4 quarters). Also, you must be able and available for full-time work.

back to top

2. How do I apply for benefits in Maryland?

You can apply online or over the phone by contacting your local UI Claim Center.

back to top

3. How much will I receive?

Weekly benefit amounts range from a minimum weekly benefit amount of $50 per week to a maximum weekly benefit amount of $430 per week. Your weekly benefit amount is determined by your wages during the base period.

back to top

4. How long will I receive these benefits for?

The length of time that you will receive benefits is also based on how much you made during the base period, but not more than 26 weeks.

back to top

5. After I start receiving benefits, what do I have to do to remain eligible?

You must continue to file weekly. Also, you must continue to be able and available for full-time work. You must actively seek employment, while keeping a record of your work search activities online. To be actively seeking employment, you must make at least three employer contacts each week you file for benefits. You must enroll with the Maryland Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning. Finally, you must accept suitable work.

back to top

6. I was turned down for benefits. How do I appeal this decision?

You must appeal within 15 calendar days from the date the decision was issued to you. Your appeal must be in writing and may be submitted by mail or by fax. Also, you must keep filing your weekly claims regularly because you will only be paid for weeks you filed if you win your appeal, and you must continue seeking work.

back to top

7. For more information on Maryland’s unemployment insurance laws: