Wisconsin Unemployment Benefits: What You Need to Know

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for unemployment benefits in Wisconsin, you must be unemployed or working reduced hours due to no fault of your own. This includes being laid off, having your hours cut back, or being unable to work due to illness or injury. You must also have earned a certain amount of wages during the base period, which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters prior to filing for benefits.

How to Apply

To apply for unemployment benefits in Wisconsin, you must file an initial claim online or by phone. You will need to provide personal and employment information, including your Social Security number, date of birth, and previous employer's name and address. Be prepared to answer questions about your reason for leaving your job, as well as any other relevant details.

Filing Weekly Claims

Once you have been approved for benefits, you will need to file a weekly claim every week to continue receiving payments. This can be done online or by phone. You will need to report any earnings from new employment, as well as any job offers or interviews. Failure to file a weekly claim on time may result in the suspension of your benefits.