Job & Family Services Office of Unemployment Compensation
Unemployment Compensation Claim Information

OHIO HAS ONLY TWO WAYS TO FILE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION BENEFITS:

  • File online at http://unemployment.ohio.gov, 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. Limited service may be available while our system is being updated nightly. Check the website for available services. Please be sure to follow the prompts.
  • Call toll-free 1-877-644-6562 or TTY 1-888-642-8203, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays). 
  • To apply for a new unemployment claim or reopen a previously filed claim, you must call on the day associated with the first initial of your last name:
     
    • For last names beginning with A through I, please call on Monday.
    • For last names beginning with J through L, please call on Tuesday.
    • For last names beginning with M through S, please call on Wednesday.
    • For last names beginning with T through Z, please call on Thursday.
    • If you have missed your filing day, please call on Friday.
                
  • For a list of what you will need to file for unemployment compensation, click: "Register for Benefits"

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU CALL THE TOLL-FREE NUMBER:

When you call the 1-877-644-6562 number, you will be requested to select one of the following number options:

  1. Press #1 for assistance with unemployment applications.
  2. Press #2 if you are calling to file for weeks of benefits, for payment information, or to inquire on the status of a previously filed claim.
  3. Press #3 if you are responding to a statement of overpayment you received in the mail or a notice of change in work-search requirements and are required to register for employment services.
  4. If you do not have a touch-tone phone, stay on the line and your call will be directed to a customer service representative.

ONCE YOUR APPLICATION HAS BEEN FILED:

  • You will receive further information by mail or email.
  • Your claim will be assigned to a Processing Center based on the last four digits of the claimant's social security number. Click on the above Processing Center link to view this information.
  • If filing online and you need your Personal Identification Number (PIN) reset, please call the toll-free number 1-866-962-4064.