Apply Online
- CALL: 1-866-234-5382 (7am – 5pm, Mon. – Fri.) to file an Unemployment Compensation Claim.
- To file an Unemployment Compensation Claim (TTY/TDD) dial 1-800-499-2035 (7am – 5pm, Mon. – Fri.)
- To contact the Inquiry Line regarding an existing claim call 1-800-361-4524 (7am – 5pm, Mon. – Fri.)
Visit an Alabama Career Center
If you have recently lost your job in Alabama, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. Applying for Alabama unemployment compensation may seem overwhelming, but with the right information and guidance, you can successfully file a claim and receive UI benefits.
How to apply for Alabama unemployment compensation
There are two ways to apply for unemployment benefits in Alabama: online or by phone.
Apply online
To apply online, visit the ADOL claims portal. Select “Establish a New or Reopen an Unemployment Claim” and click “Continue.” You will be asked to provide a variety of information about your work history, earnings, and the reason you became unemployed.
Apply by phone
To apply using the phone, call 866-234-5382.
Your call will be answered by an electronic Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. After answering some initial questions, you will be connected with a claims specialist. Using a mobile telephone is not recommended due to issues with reception and dropped calls. If all questions are not answered, you will need to call back and try again.
Information needed to apply
When filing for Alabama unemployment insurance, there is important information that you need to provide.
Have the following information ready:
- Your Driver’s License or Alabama ID #
- Your Social Security Number
- A list of your last 2 Alabama employers, including their complete addresses, telephone numbers, and employment dates
- Information and relevant documents regarding any federal civilian employment, military service, or work you performed in another state within the past 18 months
- Your bank routing number and checking or savings account number, if you opt for direct deposit of your benefit payments.
- Your Alien Registration Card, if not a United States citizen
If you do not have access to a suitable phone or computer, you can use the ones available at your local Alabama Career Center. The Career Center provides free access to telephones and computers to help you file your claim smoothly and accurately. The Career Center staff can also assist you in answering any questions and addressing concerns about your unemployment claim.
About your Social Security Number
For the Unemployment Compensation Division to process your claim, you must provide your Social Security Number (SSN). Your SSN is used to authenticate your identity, track your Alabama employers and wages, determine your eligibility for UI benefits, assess any additional income, maintain records of your benefit payments, and compile statistical data.
Alabama Unemployment Fraud
When applying for unemployment compensation benefits in Alabama, the employee must provide accurate and complete information to determine eligibility.
Answer each question truthfully to avoid any potential legal penalties for making false statements to obtain benefits. The Alabama Department of Labor takes unemployment fraud very seriously. Be sure to provide all the necessary details and avoid any misrepresentation as it can result in serious consequences.
Payment Preference
During the application process, you will be asked how you want to receive payments. Alabama offers two options for receiving unemployment benefit payments: direct deposit and the AL Vantage Prepaid Benefits Card.
Direct Deposit
To opt for direct deposit, you need to provide your bank routing and account number when you file your claim. Once your claim is approved, your benefits will be deposited into your checking or savings account within two business days.
AL Vantage Card
You can also collect payment on an AL Vantage Card, which is managed by Comerica Bank. Be aware that there are certain fees associated with some activities, such as ATM withdrawals. The card will not be mailed until your claim is approved, which may cause a delay of 7-10 days in receiving your first payment.
You can get more information about the AL Vantage Card on the Alabama Department of Labor website. In case of any issues, such as a lost or stolen card, or other problems, you can contact the AL Vantage customer service team at 833-888-2779.
After you apply
When you file an Alabama unemployment claim, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to receive your first benefit payment. Timing is subject to certain conditions such as providing complete and accurate information, filing your weekly certifications as instructed, and meeting all eligibility requirements.
To avoid delays, be sure to provide accurate and complete information when filing your claim. Any incorrect information will result in a delay or denial of your Alabama unemployment insurance benefits.
After filing your Alabama unemployment claim, you can track your claim online in the claimant portal. To ensure the security of your information, the claimant portal uses an authentication process that requires you to log in using a Google, Microsoft, or Apple account, though none of your account information is shared with the Alabama Department of Labor.
Wait for Determination
After filing your claim, the ADOL will determine your eligibility for benefits. If approved, you will receive your first payment within 7-10 days via direct deposit or the AL Vantage Prepaid Benefits Card. If your claim is denied, you can file an appeal.
Your Determination Letter will include your weekly benefit amount, along with the number of weeks that you are eligible to receive benefits. There are no extended benefits available at this time, so benefits are available for 14-20 weeks, depending on your work history. You can estimate your Alabama unemployment compensation
Certify for Benefits
Once you file your initial claim, you will need to certify for benefits each week that you are unemployed to continue receiving benefits. You can do this online or by phone.
Waiting Week
You do not receive a payment for the first week. This is known as the waiting week. However, you must still certify for benefits during the waiting week. This is a requirement under Alabama state law, and you cannot receive benefits for this week.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your claim, you can call the claims office between 5 pm to 11 pm from Sunday to Thursday to schedule a callback appointment for the next day. Keep your phone nearby the entire day of your scheduled callback to avoid missing the appointment.
The Alabama State callback service offers an efficient way to receive help and information about your unemployment claim. You can also visit your local Alabama Career Center for additional support. Remember to check your claimant portal regularly for claim updates and important messages from the Alabama Department of Labor.
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