Connecticut Unemployment

Connecticut Unemployment Insurance Benefits

Connecticut’s unemployment benefits program provides temporary income for Connecticut’s unemployed workers – both partially and fully unemployed. This unemployment assistance provides a bridge while the worker looks for new jobs, participates in approved training, or waits to be recalled from a layoff.

All funding for Connecticut’s unemployment insurance compensation comes from taxes paid by Connecticut businesses. Workers at no point pay any costs associated with Connecticut’s jobless benefits program.

Connecticut Unemployment Services

Am I Eligible for Unemployment Benefits in Connecticut?

Individual determinations are made on a case-by-case basis. Typically, a Connecticut resident can be considered eligible for UI benefits if the following criteria are met:

• The claimant has earned sufficient wages during the base period for review, as defined by Connecticut law
• The claimant has separated from employment through no fault of his or her own
• The claimant is physically and mentally able to work
• The claimant is available for work as defined by Connecticut law
• The claimant is registered with the American Job Center
• The claimant is actively seeking new employment

Benefit Payments and Duration

Applying for Unemployment Benefits in Connecticut

You should file an initial claim application for UI benefits with the Connecticut Department of Labor as soon as you become unemployed. The easiest way to do so is through the CT Direct Benefits website.

You will need to set up an online account using a valid email address. Once you’ve created your account, you can use it to check the status of your claim and file your weekly benefits certification.

Managing Your Unemployment Benefits

Connecticut unemployment compensation is paid on a weekly basis. You must submit eligibility certification each week while you receive payments. You can certify online using the same account you set up for your initial claim.

Throughout the certification process, you must answer a series of questions about your job-search activities for the week, and report any income or offers of employment.

If you need assistance with submitting your weekly certification, please visit your local American Job Center.

Filing an Appeal

If your initial claim for unemployment benefits is denied, you will receive official notice. The letter will provide details explaining the decision. If you disagree with the decision, you may request an appeal.

You must submit a request for appeal in writing within 21 calendar days from the postmarked date on your decision letter. You may file an appeal through any of the following methods:

• Mail or fax your appeal to any full-service American Job Center.
• Submit your request for appeal online.
• Submit your request for appeal in person at any full-service American Job Center.

Reporting Fraud

Unemployment is a serious crime and is taken very seriously by the state of Connecticut. Unemployment fraud dilutes the integrity of the UI benefits program and potentially keeps benefits out of the hands of those who need them the most.

If you suspect that someone is collecting UI benefits by providing false information, please report as much information as you can with the state of Connecticut’s online reporting form.

In addition to submitting the form online, you may also mail or fax it to the contact information listed below:

Connecticut Department of Labor
Benefit Payment Control Unit
200 Folly Brook Blvd.
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Fax: 860-263-6343

Connecticut Unemployment Office Locations