Lost Your Job? Here’s what you need to know

 
 
 

Unemployment insurance benefits provide temporary, partial-wage replacement while searching for other work. Below are answers to the most common questions about unemployment benefits. 

Will applying for unemployment hurt my immigration status?  

Applying for unemployment has no negative effect on one’s ability to obtain asylum, a green card, or citizenship. The U.S. government doesn’t consider unemployment pay to be welfare, but as insurance to help people, including asylum seekers, who lose their jobs.  

When should I apply for unemployment benefits? 

As soon as you lose your job, apply for unemployment benefits. If you are still on payroll, your unemployment claim will be denied; wait until the end of any severance you’re receiving. 

What must I do to get unemployment benefits? 

In order to receive unemployment payments, someone who has lost a job must apply and meet the eligibility criteria. 

  1. Go to reemployme.maine.gov and click on “File a Claim” to start the process. For help from an interpreter, call (800) 593-7660 and request a specific language. 

  2. Anyone receiving unemployment must file a “Weekly Claim” in every week of unemployment. Go to reemployme.maine.gov and click on “File a Weekly Claim.” For help from an interpreter or for anyone lacking internet access, call (800) 593-7660 to file a claim. 

Be prepared to answer several questions every week. All of these must be answered truthfully.  

● Are you physically able to work? 

● Are you available to work? 

● Did you apply for at least one job this week? 

Important: If the answer is not “Yes” to all three of these questions each week, you may not qualify for unemployment benefits.  

Another question will be:  

● Did you refuse any work during the week? 

Anyone who refuses a suitable work offer risks no longer qualifying for unemployment benefits. 

Another requirement for receiving unemployment benefits is to create a profile on Maine JobLink joblink.maine.gov/jobseeker/registrations/new, Maine’s official website for unemployed workers. Users also may apply for jobs through the site.  

For help with a job search or with unemployment benefits, those who live in York, Cumberland, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, and Waldo counties may visit Workforce Solutions Maine www.workforcesolutionsme.org/#locations, 190 Lancaster St., Portland. In Lewiston, call Community Concepts www.ccimaine.org, (800) 866-5588. 

Looking for a job? We can help!

Individuals with professional-level skills can also see www.IntWork.com to apply for jobs or register for help getting back into a career. 

Maine has many supportive organizations and state agencies that can help.  No one needs to face unemployment alone.