Apply for unemployment benefits online through MyNCUIBenefits—this is the fastest way to apply. You can also apply over the phone: 888-737-0259.

For free translation assistance, call 888-737-0259. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for all other languages. 

Create a MyNCUIBenefits Account to:

• File a claim for unemployment.
• Complete your weekly certifications.
• Check your claim status.

What You Need to Create an Account

• A personal email address.
• Your Social Security number.
• If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need your Alien Number and expiration date.

Steps to Create a MyNCUIBenefits Account and File Your Claim

1. Click on the link to Create an Online Account.
2. Select I am Individual/Claimant… and enter your Social Security number.
3. Create a username and password under User Account Creation.
4. Select Create Account.
   • Check your email. We will send you a confirmation email with a link to finish setting up your account. You must click the link to finish creating your account.
5. Sign in with your username and password.
   • You may be asked to verify your identity using Multi-Factor Authentication. DES will send a one-time passcode to the email address on your account. You must enter the one-time passcode and your password to sign in.
   • The first time you sign in, you will need to fill in some information about yourself. Fill in the required information and click Next.
6. File your claim.
   • Go to the Action Required box and click on File a New Unemployment Insurance Claim.

For more assistance with your account, visit MyNCUIBenefits Account Help for Individuals.

Create MyNCUIBenefits Account

Sign In to Existing Account

Identity Verification

When you apply for unemployment benefits, identity verification may be needed to make sure you are who you claim to be. It is an important security measure to help protect your identity and prevent fraud.

There are two main ways to verify your identity:

• Online through ID.me. You can create an account with ID.me and will have the option to complete either:
  • Self-service online steps
  • Video call
• In-person with USPS. You can take required paperwork to a participating U.S. post office.

After you apply:

• Watch for mail or email from DES. After we review your application, we will let you know your benefit amount and eligibility details.
• Check the status of your claim anytime in your MyNCUIBenefits account.
• Learn about your Weekly Requirements to get benefits.