How To Apply For Unemployment Insurance In Colorado

Thousands of Coloradans have filed unemployment claims over the past few days, and earlier this week, so many people were trying to file claims that the submission website crashed, according to multiple reports. Many Coloradans have lost their jobs amid the spread of the new coronavirus.

In a news conference Wednesday, Gov. Jared Polis said the best times to visit the website are early in the morning and late at night. If you experience issues with the website, don't give up — try again later, he said.

On Wednesday, more than 8,000 claims were filed, the state said. In contrast, last Monday only 400 claims were filed.

Here's how to apply for unemployment insurance in our state:

1. Make sure you qualify — you need to have been unemployed "through no fault of your own," and you need to have earned $2,500 during your base period, which can be calculated here. More information about qualification can be found here.

2. File a claim — you need to have a valid ID card to prove that you've been in the country:

• Valid Colorado driver's license or a valid Colorado ID card.
• United States military ID card or a military dependent ID card.
• United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner card.
• Native American tribal document.
• Valid driver's license or ID card issued by another state or Canada. U.S. Passport

3. Start your claim (applications are only available in English — more information about translations can be found here.) You need to have your social security number available and be prepared to offer information on any employer you have worked for over the past 18 months, including dates worked, rate of pay, and reasons you are no longer working. You can file a claim for benefits after your last day worked. You can begin your application here.

4. After completing your application, you need to register with your local workforce center before collecting benefits. You can register here or in-person at any workforce center in the state. You will then be sent a personal identification number that will provide access to benefits and services.

5. You can register with MyUI to view the status of your claim and request payment online. You can also request payment by phoning 303-813-2800 in Denver's metro area or 1-888-550-2800 outside metro Denver.

6. The state sends you a request for verification of personal information, which will require your signature and affirmation that you are a U.S. citizen or are legally in the country.

7. After your claim is processed and you qualify to receive benefits, the first payment you may receive is postponed by one week’s worth of payment, called the waiting week.

8. Your claim lasts for one year. However, your unemployment benefits may be exhausted before the benefit year ends (most claims have approximately 26 weeks of benefits).

More information about the entire process, maintaining your eligibility, working and collecting benefits and searching for a job can be found here.