The federal-state unemployment insurance system uses continued certifications, but the filing day, frequency, questions, work-search rules, and deadline come from the state handling your claim.
Before you certify
- Open the official unemployment account or telephone system for the state handling the claim.
- Confirm the week-ending dates you are being asked to certify.
- Gather hours worked, gross wages earned before deductions, other income requested by the state, and required work-search records.
- Read any messages about identity verification, registration for work, appointments, or unresolved issues.
Steps
- Select the correct week or weeks. Do not answer for the current day when the screen asks about an earlier benefit week.
- Report all work. Include part-time, temporary, self-employment, or other work when the state asks for it.
- Report earnings as instructed. State systems commonly ask for gross wages in the week earned, even if payment arrives later. Follow the wording in your state's question.
- Answer availability questions accurately. Report whether you were able and available for work and any days you could not work.
- Enter work-search activity. Use the state's required format and keep supporting records.
- Submit and save confirmation. Keep the confirmation number, submission date, and a copy or screenshot that does not expose sensitive account data.
Weekly or biweekly filing
States use different schedules and terminology, including weekly claim, weekly certification, continued claim, or request for payment. Some systems allow two weeks to be certified together. Your state notice and account control the schedule.
If you worked during the week
Do not skip the certification solely because you worked part time. You may still be considered for partial benefits under state law, but you must report work and earnings correctly. The state calculates whether any payment is due.
If you miss a certification
Use the state agency's instructions immediately. A late certification may delay payment or require reopening the claim, and the available remedy varies by state. Do not create a second claim unless the agency tells you to do so.
After submission
Check the claim account for payment status, requests for information, adjudication notices, or appeal rights. A submitted certification is a request for the state to determine eligibility for that period; it does not guarantee payment.
Official sources
- U.S. Department of Labor — Weekly certification guidance
- U.S. Department of Labor — How to file for unemployment insurance
- CareerOneStop — State unemployment benefit finder