Illinois Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment Insurance (UI) is a federal and state combined program intended for those unemployed to collect monetary benefits. Every state administers separate unemployment insurance programs, but adheres to federally mandated guidelines and principles as established by federal law.

Illinois Unemployment Insurance program is designed to help individuals find employment, while providing those individuals with temporary financial support. In other words, Unemployment Insurance (UI) is used as a temporary financial aid for workers who, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) handles all unemployment benefits and claims throughout the state. Unemployment Insurance benefits are monetary compensations that are deducted from your wages while you are gainfully employed. These funds then go into a trust that you can receive if you are lose your job. Like other types of insurance, unemployment insurance is used only in an emergency. In the state of Illinois, this means, it goes into effect when you are permanently or temporarily out of work, the hours you work are less than 40 hours a week, or the jobs are scarce. Once you file a claim, you may be eligible for up to 26 weeks of benefits. In addition, your employer is also required to pay Unemployment Insurance Tax for all employees.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) requires an individual to meet specific eligibility criteria to receive unemployment benefits. For instance, workers must be actively looking for employment each week they collect any benefits. In other words, they must be willing, able, and ready to work every week. Benefits are paid once every two week period.

Primary contact with the IDES can be made by phone, online, email, or direct mail.

In addition, the program provides employment services and specialized programs for the underemployed or unemployed and also brings together individuals looking for work with employers who match their qualifications in labor needs.