Maryland Unemployment Benefits
Maryland employees who lose their fault through no fault of their own may be eligible for unemployment benefits. The program provides temporary unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to replace part of one's income.
In Maryland, individuals must file weekly and verify they're actively looking for a job.
Learn how to apply for benefits, get health insurance while unemployed, and how to claim benefits on tax returns.
What is the unemployment number in Maryland?
There are two main unemployment numbers. One is a live agent and the other is the IVR phone system. You can also start a chat with a virtual assistant.
New claim or for information on an existing claim:
Call
667-206-6520.
Weekly claim certification, reset a PIN, or check payment status: call Call
410-949-0022.
There's also an option to chat online.
What is BEACON 2.0?
The Maryland Department of Labor, Division of Unemployment Insurance, utilizes a program called BEACON 2.0 to assist Marylanders in filing for unemployment benefits and managing unemployment insurance claims (WEBCERT).
What documents do you need to file for unemployment
Before filing for unemployment, gather the documents the state will need to verify your claim. These include personal information and employment history for the last 18 months. You'll need the name, address, and phone number for all your employers during that time.
Applicants may be asked for documents such as:
- pay stubs
- W-2
- 1099 forms
- tax return
Learn about the documents that may be required to file a claim.
How to certify the claim each week
Each week, unemployment beneficiaries are required to file a claim certification. It can be done one of three ways:
- Filing through BEACON 2.0
- Using the app called “MD Unemployment for Claimants.” Download it on the Apple iTunes Store or Google Play.
- Calling 410-949-0022
Required Weekly Job Activites
To continue to be eligible for unemployment benefits, Marylanders must actively search for a job.
Each week, job seekers must complete at least three valid reemployment activities. At least one must be a job contact.
A qualifying job contact involves contacting a potential employer. It can be in person, online or through fax or email.
The Maryland Department of Labor has a list of activities that qualify for this requirement.
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How to file taxes on unemployment
When filing taxes, unemployment insurance (UI) recipients provide proof of the benefits (money) received with Form 1099-G.
What is Form 1099-G?
This form is called a Statement for Recipients of Certain Government Payments.
The 1099-G form includes the total Maryland unemployment benefit for each calendar year.
It may be different than what was received for the week(s) of paid unemployment.
For questions, talk to a tax preparer. Free tax preparation services are available in Maryland for those who qualify.
How to get health insurance while unemployed
When a job is lost, there are additional worries beyond the end of paychecks. What about health insurance?
Even though employment may end with an employer, former employees may be eligible to:
- continue their health insurance while unemployed through COBRA
- or buy insurance through Maryland Health Connection
Learn about both options.
What is COBRA?
COBRA stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act.
It's a big name, but most commonly referred to as COBRA.
It gives workers and their families access to health insurance after a layoff.
COBRA is typically available for:
- employees who are laid off
- lose their job, as long as there's no gross misconduct
- for individuals who voluntarily leave a job
How long does COBRA last?
Health benefits can continue for at least 18 months, and up to 36 months in some cases.
What's the cost?
It's typically more expensive than the health insurance premium paid while employed with the company.
Sometimes the price is significantly higher. Why? It's because the employer no longer pays a portion of the health insurance.
The individual buying COBRA typically pays the full insurance premium.
Talk to the former employer about whether COBRA is available while unemployed.
Maryland Health Connection
Unemployed individuals can apply for insurance coverage through Maryland Health Connection.
Read 211's guide to health insurance.
Dial 211
Talk to a caring and compassionate person 24/7. They can also connect you to resources.
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explore assistance programs
Learn about benefit programs and how to connect with support.
Food
Free food near me, pantries, SNAP, WIC, grocery savings
Utilities
Electric, gas, and water bill assistance programs
Housing
Rental payments, eviction prevention, homeless shelters
Immigration
Immigration help for new Americans and refugees
