Each week that you remain unemployed, you can claim your weekly unemployment insurance benefits until you use up your entire awarded compensation.

Typically you can file your weekly claims by mail, by phone or online. Not all options are available in each state.

When you file your weekly claims you must answer questions regarding your job search efforts, such as if you have looked for a job or earned any money during the week.

You also verify your mailing address and choose whether or not you want federal income taxes withheld from your weekly benefits.

Here’s how to file your weekly claim for unemployment benefits:

Complete the paper claim form, if you receive weekly claim forms by mail. Return the signed and completed form using the mailing envelope that was included with the claim form.

Call the weekly certification number for your state unemployment office, if you prefer to claim your benefits over the phone.

Claim your weekly benefits online if your state has an online weekly certification option. Not all states offer this.

To check your state website, use the Employee Issues website to find the web URL for your state unemployment office.