New Jersey Unemployment Phone Numbers

Phone Numbers for Applying for Unemployment Insurance

If you don’t wish to apply for benefits online, you can apply for NJ unemployment over the phone. New Jersey reemployment call center staff can help you file a new unemployment insurance claim. Here are the phone numbers you can try based on your region:

New Jersey Unemployment - Apply by Phone

*You must make the call from an out of state area code.

The customer service agents will accept your unemployment claim. They are available on weekdays from Mon-Fri 8 AM to 4:30 PM. 

Certifying or Claiming Weekly Unemployment Benefits over the phone

You can also certify for weekly unemployment benefits over the phone if you don’t have access to the internet.

ALL CLAIMANTS can now certify for benefits anytime Sunday through Friday from 8 am – 7 pm. Please note that you cannot claim benefits on Saturdays.

New Jersey - Certify Weekly Claims

These local phone numbers are provided to reduce long-distance call charges for callers. However, all calls go through to the same line. Calling different numbers will not help you reach someone any faster. If you hang up, you will lose your place in line.

For in-person help with your New Jersey unemployment claim, you can make an appointment with your local New Jersey career center.

Information to have before you call

Before you call, it helps to have the following information ready. Having this information and documentation on hand will speed up your application and certification, and help resolve any issues you may be experiencing.

• Your NJ driver’s license or NJ non-driver identification number
• Social Security Number
• PIN
• Complete name and address of employer
• Employer’s telephone number
• Your occupation with that employer
• Beginning and ending dates of employment
• Reason for job separation
• Amount and duration of any separation pay you may be receiving
• Military Form DD-214, if applicable
• Form SF-8 or SF-50 (if you were a federal employee)
• Union hiring hall information, including local number and address (for union workers)
• Pension information, if applicable
• Recall date (if you expect to be recalled to your job)
• Your bank account number and routing number for direct deposit
• Alien Registration Number (if applicable)

Tips for calling the New Jersey unemployment call center

If you need to call the New Jersey unemployment call center, there are a few things that can help make the process go smoothly. Try calling during non-peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid long wait times. When you do call, be prepared to wait on hold for a while and have all your necessary information ready, including your Social Security number and PIN. Additional information may be required if you are trying to report unemployment fraud or file an appeal.

If you need help with your application or determining NJ unemployment eligibility requirements, you should probably speak to a live person. But if your question is about a simple matter, such as resetting your PIN, consider using the automated system to save time. Remember to be polite and respectful. If you are unable to get through to the call center, consider using other resources like online chat or email. If all else fails, keep trying and call back later.