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Information Handbook

Introduction

Effective October 29, 2023 through October 26, 2024

This handbook provides important information about unemployment benefits, including:

  • How to apply
  • How your eligibility is determined
  • What you must do each week to receive a benefit payment

The information in this handbook is an overview of unemployment insurance benefits. It does not cover every topic, answer all questions, or take the place of the law.

It is your responsibility to read this handbook and all information you receive from Minnesota Unemployment Insurance.

The Unemployment Insurance Program is administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). DEED provides free assistance to all applicants and employers who have questions about unemployment insurance.

You should never pay a third party to help you apply for or request unemployment benefits. You should also be careful when reading information on social media, which may not always be accurate.

Benefits are funded by a tax paid only by employers. Tax deductions from employees’ paychecks are not used for unemployment insurance benefits.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Unemployment Insurance (UI) checklist
Official website
Protect your private information
Applying for benefits
When do I apply?
How do I apply?
What if I'm unemployed for a reason other than layoff?
Using your password
After you apply
How much will I receive?
Requesting benefit payments
When do I request benefit payments?
When can I expect my first payment?
Nonpayable week
How will I be paid?
How does direct deposit work?
How does the unemployment debit card work?
Report work when requesting benefit payments
What work am I required to report?
How does working affect my benefits?
What if my hours vary week to week?
What happens if I fail to report my hours and earnings?
Income that may affect benefits
Understanding weekly eligibility requirements
What do I need to do each week?
How does going to school affect my benefits?
Stopping and starting benefit payments
What if I go back to work?
What if I become unemployed again?
Withholdings from benefit payments
Income taxes, overpayments, child support
Reemployment Assistance
Contact customer service
Phone numbers, mailing address, fax number
Help finding your next job
Online job search eLearning classes
Financial help and community services
Additional information
CareerForce - Help for Job Hunters and Career Seekers
Comments
Privacy rights and alternative language
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