Filing for unemployment after a layoff: Okay, Next

File in the state where you worked, not where you live. Worked in more than one? Start with the agency where you live now.

Filing is always free. No real state or federal program charges a fee to file. If a site asks for payment, it's a scam.

Your Social Security number and a government photo ID.

Employer details for the last 18 months: each company's name, address, and your dates there.

The reason you left each job. For this one, that's "laid off / no fault," not "fired" or "quit."

Your most recent pay stubs and last year's W-2.

Bank routing + account number, if you want benefits paid by direct deposit.

How unemployment insurance works (DOL)

Plain-language overview of eligibility, the unpaid waiting week, and weekly certification.

Unemployment is taxable (IRS Topic 418)

Benefits count as income. Consider asking your state to withhold so tax time isn't a surprise.