Unemployment

• Frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and unemployment benefits.
• Unemployment and Illinois Job Link services with the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) currently require an appointment. To schedule an appointment with IDES call (217) 558-0401.  File your unemployment claim online.
• If you have questions about unemployment insurance, please call the IDES Customer Service Center at 800-244-5631 or 866-488-4016 TTY.
• Certify for unemployment insurance benefits here, or call Tele-Serve at 312-338-4337 Monday-Friday 5 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
• To learn more about the process of applying for unemployment, see Illinois Legal Aid Online's articles, "Applying for Unemployment Benefits" and "Getting Unemployment Benefits."
• Explore Illinois Work Net Center’s resources for laid-off workers for additional assistance.
• To post your resume, search job postings, or find a job, visit www.illinoisjoblink.com. For assistance with Illinois Job Link, call 877-342-7533 or 866-488-4016 TTY.
• Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership provides training and career coaching in high-demand industries. See who's hiring now.
• Find extensive listings of virtual job fairs and job ads on Get Hired IL.
• Harper College's Moving Forward Scholarship for short-term training programs benefits community members who have experienced job loss, require a career change, or have delayed college or employment due to COVID-19.

Visit our Program Calendar for jobs and careers-focused programming being offered virtually.

See the Illinois Department of Unemployment Security's video explaining the unemployment process below: